News for 'government accountability'

Enforcement Directorate Investigates 590 Crore Fraud in Haryana Government Accounts

Enforcement Directorate Investigates 590 Crore Fraud in Haryana Government Accounts

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has launched a money laundering investigation into the alleged embezzlement of 590 crore from Haryana government accounts held with IDFC First Bank, conducting searches across multiple locations.

Enforcement Directorate Investigates Rs 590 Crore Embezzlement from Haryana Government Accounts

Enforcement Directorate Investigates Rs 590 Crore Embezzlement from Haryana Government Accounts

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at 19 locations in Haryana and Chandigarh concerning the alleged embezzlement of Rs 590 crore from Haryana government accounts held with IDFC First Bank. The investigation focuses on identifying business entities involved in concealing the money trail and proceeds of the crime.

7 Scams That Can Empty Your Bank Account

7 Scams That Can Empty Your Bank Account

Rediff.com5 days ago

A frozen phone screen, a fake customer-care call, a screen-sharing request or even a duplicate SIM can give cybercriminals a route into your bank account.

Indian Enterprises Boost AI Investment But Face Governance Challenges

Indian Enterprises Boost AI Investment But Face Governance Challenges

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

A new report reveals that enterprise AI investment in India has surged by 119 per cent, exceeding the global average. However, only 22 per cent of Indian organisations have established adequate governance frameworks, creating a significant gap between rapid deployment and safe, scalable AI adoption. This lack of governance impacts operational depth and raises concerns about transparency, regulation, and data privacy.

Indian Golf Union Aligns With National Sports Governance Act

Indian Golf Union Aligns With National Sports Governance Act

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Indian Golf Union (IGU) has approved significant amendments to its Memorandum of Association, including the addition of Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit, creation of a Dispute Resolution Committee, and modifications to its election process, all aimed at aligning with the National Sports Governance Act.

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rediff.com5 days ago

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Modi government of quietly paving the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions, alleging it's a surrender to American pressure. The government's recent notification exempts charges only up to Rs 2,000, sparking concerns that higher value transactions and eventually all UPI payments could incur fees. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, however, clarified that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies to merchants, not customers, and supports digital infrastructure.

Outrage In Gonda Over Trader's Murder, Protesters Seek Justice And Police Accountability

Outrage In Gonda Over Trader's Murder, Protesters Seek Justice And Police Accountability

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Following the murder of a trader in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, after a social media dispute, widespread protests have erupted. Demonstrators, led by Uttar Pradesh minister Sanjay Nishad, are demanding the death penalty for the accused, compensation for the victim's family, and action against negligent police personnel, three of whom have already been suspended.

CJP's Instagram account taken down on I-Day, restored later

CJP's Instagram account taken down on I-Day, restored later

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

The official Instagram account of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) was temporarily taken down on Independence Day, prompting the outfit to allege an attempt to silence its voice. The account was later restored, and the CJP, known for its student-centric campaigns, vowed not to be intimidated.

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'If a student can get a good teacher, quality content and mock tests at no cost, it becomes very hard for a mid-tier coaching centre to keep charging for the same lecture.'

No blanket ban, bank account freeze must match proceeds of crime: HC

No blanket ban, bank account freeze must match proceeds of crime: HC

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that investigating agencies cannot impose a blanket debit freeze on a person's bank account during cybercrime investigations. The court stated that restraint must be proportionate to the suspected proceeds of crime, directing banks to de-freeze accounts beyond the disputed amount. This ruling aims to protect innocent account holders from complete financial deprivation due to minor disputed transactions.

Sebi to overhaul SME listing framework, tighten AI/ML accountability in financial markets

Sebi to overhaul SME listing framework, tighten AI/ML accountability in financial markets

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is set to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of the small and medium enterprise (SME) listing framework and tighten accountability around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in financial markets, Sebi Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey announced.

Abhijit Dipke tenders his 'resignation' as 'Madhya Pradesh CM'

Abhijit Dipke tenders his 'resignation' as 'Madhya Pradesh CM'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, used a satirical "resignation" letter to criticise the Mohan Yadav government in Madhya Pradesh over the deaths of over 30 tribal children in Balaghat district. His letter, addressed to the Governor, highlighted failures in compensation, basic amenities like water and education, and tribal welfare, questioning the government's accountability. The issue has also drawn the attention of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, which sought responses from state departments regarding the alleged deaths due to infectious diseases and inadequate facilities.

HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle; account back online in India

HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle; account back online in India

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Delhi high court ordered the restoration of the Cockroach Janta Party's X handle on Tuesday after the Centre informed it that the account was withheld to prevent "chaos" ahead of the NEET re-test and that there would be no difficulty revoking it now.

X account suspended of outfit handling Mohan Bhagwat's NYC event

X account suspended of outfit handling Mohan Bhagwat's NYC event

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A US Congress-constituted advisory body on religious freedom, the USCIRF, has urged the Trump administration to revoke the visa issued to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, citing concerns over alleged violent attacks against religious minorities by RSS subgroups.

SC cracks down on cyber fraud, orders RBI SOP on mule accounts

SC cracks down on cyber fraud, orders RBI SOP on mule accounts

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Reserve Bank of India to prepare a standard operating procedure (SOP) within four weeks to deal with bank accounts linked to cyber frauds, including mule accounts. This directive is part of a broader effort to strengthen responses to cyber-enabled financial frauds, with the court also urging states and UTs to adopt and operationalise grievance redressal and money restoration modules.

CBI to Probe 590 Crore Embezzlement from Haryana Government's IDFC Bank Accounts

CBI to Probe 590 Crore Embezzlement from Haryana Government's IDFC Bank Accounts

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is set to take over the investigation into the embezzlement of 590 crore from Haryana government accounts held with IDFC First Bank in Chandigarh. The Haryana government decided to hand over the probe to the central agency last month following allegations that funds were diverted for personal use through shell companies and real estate investments.

After Modi post row, Meta adds extra safeguards for top accounts

After Modi post row, Meta adds extra safeguards for top accounts

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Meta wrote to the government on Wednesday outlining the specifics of enhanced and rigorous safeguards it has now implemented for content posted by the Prime Minister and other prominent accounts, according to sources.

Meta to report child safety issues to law enforcement: Govt

Meta to report child safety issues to law enforcement: Govt

Rediff.com5 days ago

Meta has agreed to report child safety-related matters, including child sexual abuse cases, to appropriate law enforcement agencies in India, government sources confirmed, emphasising that online safety for children is a "non-negotiable" fundamental principle for social media platforms operating in the country.

How Meta's Offer Will Nail Child Sex Abuse Offenders

How Meta's Offer Will Nail Child Sex Abuse Offenders

Rediff.com4 days ago

'Details of accounts such as the name, email id associated with the account, the IP address will now be shared with law enforcement agencies, which will help track down offenders faster.'

Shapoorji Pallonji Group backs Tata Sons listing, bolstering board's push

Shapoorji Pallonji Group backs Tata Sons listing, bolstering board's push

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Shapoorji Pallonji (SP) Group, the second-largest shareholder in Tata Sons, has publicly endorsed a listing of the Tata Group's holding company, aligning with the board's push for greater transparency and public accountability despite opposition from the Tata Trusts.

BMW India CEO: Remove EV Road Tax Caps to Boost Adoption

BMW India CEO: Remove EV Road Tax Caps to Boost Adoption

Rediff.com7 days ago

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO of BMW Group India, has urged state governments like Delhi to remove price caps on road tax benefits for electric vehicles (EVs), arguing that such limits deter luxury-car buyers and hinder the transition to cleaner mobility in pollution-affected regions.

What Shapoorji Pallonji Mistry's Statement Says Between The Lines

What Shapoorji Pallonji Mistry's Statement Says Between The Lines

Rediff.com1 days ago

Shapoorji Pallonji Mistry's statement will be watched closely against the backdrop of the listing battle as well as the Tata leadership contest, with veto votes being cast over the reappointment of N Chandrasekaran as chairman of Tata Sons for a third term.

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The challenge thrown by the youth movement creates the opportunity for a more consequential debate on India's economic trajectory because it must remain centered on India's youth as its driving impulse, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.

AISA backs CJP's Sept 5 protest over student FIRs, NEET

AISA backs CJP's Sept 5 protest over student FIRs, NEET

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The All India Students' Association (AISA) has announced its support for the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) proposed September 5 protest march in Delhi. The demonstration aims to demand the withdrawal of FIRs against students and an inquiry into alleged pellet and bullet firing during previous agitations, alongside addressing unresolved issues related to the NEET exam.

Associate membership for Andaman & Nicobar, representative at ICC on agenda at BCCI AGM

Associate membership for Andaman & Nicobar, representative at ICC on agenda at BCCI AGM

Rediff.com3 days ago

The BCCI's 95th Annual General Meeting in Mumbai will address several crucial matters, including the grant of associate membership to the Cricket Association of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the appointment of a BCCI representative to the ICC, and the induction of new members to the IPL Governing Council.

Understanding The New UPI Transaction Fees For Merchants

Understanding The New UPI Transaction Fees For Merchants

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments exceeding Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, marking the end of nearly six years of free service. Person-to-person transfers and small-value transactions below Rs 2,000 remain free. The new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) is capped at Rs 300 for transactions above Rs 75,000, with differentiated rates for essential sectors and investments, and safeguards to prevent costs from being passed to consumers.

Ex-BJP leader Annamalai criticises Centre over 'no accountability' for NEET paper leaks

Ex-BJP leader Annamalai criticises Centre over 'no accountability' for NEET paper leaks

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Former BJP leader K Annamalai has criticised the Centre for its handling of the NEET issue, alleging a lack of accountability despite three question paper leaks and questioning the delay in engaging with student protesters.

UEFA 'On Course' to Find Challenger to FIFA President Infantino

UEFA 'On Course' to Find Challenger to FIFA President Infantino

Rediff.com3 days ago

UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister stated that UEFA is actively seeking a credible challenger to FIFA President Gianni Infantino for the upcoming March election, emphasising the need for a candidate capable of uniting football's confederations and delivering lasting governance reform, rather than merely installing a European figurehead.

Private Sector Capex Rises 7% in FY25, Govt Spending Slows

Private Sector Capex Rises 7% in FY25, Govt Spending Slows

Rediff.com5 days ago

Private corporations in India invested approximately 30.3 trillion in fixed assets during FY25, marking a 7 per cent increase from the previous year, according to the statistics ministry. This growth in private capital expenditure contrasts with a slowdown in government capital spending.

'12 Years Of Hard Work': Elavenil's Parents Celebrate Historic Silver Medals At Asian Games

'12 Years Of Hard Work': Elavenil's Parents Celebrate Historic Silver Medals At Asian Games

Rediff.com24 minutes ago

Elavenil Valarivan's family celebrated her historic Asian Games silver medals, saying 12 years of dedication, sacrifice and support from coaches and authorities finally brought her long-awaited success.

How To Pick The Right Broker

How To Pick The Right Broker

Rediff.com5 days ago

Investors opening new brokerage accounts must choose a broker suited to their style.

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move ends nearly six years of fully free UPI payments, though person-to-person (P2P) transfers and small P2M payments remain free. The charges aim to bolster investment in UPI infrastructure, with specific exemptions and caps for essential sectors.

Meta may lose legal immunity after govt calls it service provider

Meta may lose legal immunity after govt calls it service provider

Rediff.com4 days ago

Government sources state that Meta, due to its algorithmic amplification of content, can no longer be considered a "simple intermediary" but rather a "service provider," implying greater responsibility and potential loss of legal immunity. This shift comes as Meta commits to directly reporting child abuse content to Indian law enforcement, amidst increasing government scrutiny over harmful online content and algorithmic bias.

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

A government bill proposing to widen the remit of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) is facing scrutiny from Members of Parliament. Concerns have been raised that the Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2026, could reduce the premier institute's autonomy. The bill, currently under examination by a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, aims to incorporate ISI as a 'body corporate' to strengthen governance and promote academic excellence, but critics fear increased government control.

Why Petrol Dealers Oppose UPI Fee

Why Petrol Dealers Oppose UPI Fee

Rediff.com2 days ago

Petrol pump dealers seek exemption from the proposed 5 UPI charge on fuel purchases above 2,000, citing pressure on their margins.

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: Ineligibility Leads To Fund Recovery

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: Ineligibility Leads To Fund Recovery

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Delhi government has notified detailed guidelines for the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana, outlining strict provisions for beneficiaries found ineligible, including discontinuation of financial assistance, recovery of disbursed funds, and potential fraud charges. The scheme provides Rs 2,500 monthly to eligible women, with specific rules for fund disbursement via RD/FD accounts and CBDC wallets, along with clear eligibility and exclusion criteria.

Hockey India Executive Board To Meet Amidst Internal Strife And HIL Restructuring Talks

Hockey India Executive Board To Meet Amidst Internal Strife And HIL Restructuring Talks

Rediff.com5 days ago

Hockey India is set to hold an emergent Executive Board meeting on September 18 to address a deepening internal controversy involving President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary Bhola Nath Singh, stemming from a jersey colour change. The meeting will also focus on restructuring the Hockey India League (HIL) to create an independent Governing Council with franchise involvement, and discuss upcoming elections and Asian Champions Trophy hosting.

COAI And British High Commission Ink Pact For AI, Digital Trust

COAI And British High Commission Ink Pact For AI, Digital Trust

Rediff.com6 days ago

Telecom industry body COAI and the British High Commission signed an MoU to boost cooperation in AI, connectivity, and digital trust, fostering responsible tech innovation. The pact, signed at the CO.AI 2026 event, focused on AI's role in intelligent networks, security, and public services. Discussions highlighted AI's importance in combating fraud, improving network efficiency, and ensuring secure digital services. TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti and Acting British High Commissioner Ben Mellor emphasised the need for balanced governance and international collaboration to ensure secure, inclusive, and responsible digital transformation.

Why Left Parties Demand Withdrawal Of UPI Charges

Why Left Parties Demand Withdrawal Of UPI Charges

Rediff.com4 days ago

Left parties have strongly condemned the government's decision to impose charges on UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000, with CPI General Secretary D Raja alleging the move was made under "US pressure" to favour foreign payment companies. Both CPI and All India Forward Bloc demand the withdrawal of this "anti-people decision," arguing it burdens consumers and merchants while undermining UPI's role as a public digital infrastructure. They highlight concerns that the charges weaken India's digital sovereignty and serve commercial interests of foreign corporations like Visa and Mastercard.