News for 'government officials'

Kolkata warehouse toll rises to 11, rescue ops underway after 24 hours

Kolkata warehouse toll rises to 11, rescue ops underway after 24 hours

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The death toll from the Taratala warehouse collapse in south Kolkata has risen to 10, with rescue operations continuing using advanced Army equipment. Five individuals have been arrested, including the warehouse owner and structural engineer, as police investigate potential safety norm violations.

Two Bengaluru Municipal Corporation officials arrested for allegedly accepting a bribe

Two Bengaluru Municipal Corporation officials arrested for allegedly accepting a bribe

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Two Bengaluru Municipal Corporation officials were arrested for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs three lakh in connection with pending 'Khata' work.

Azadpur Mandi Goes Digital For Gate Pass Payments

Azadpur Mandi Goes Digital For Gate Pass Payments

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Azadpur Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) has introduced an online payment system for gate pass fees, aiming to reduce congestion, enhance transparency, and streamline operations at Asia's largest wholesale fruits and vegetables market. This digital initiative is expected to benefit traders, drivers, and other stakeholders by speeding up vehicle entry and minimising cash transactions.

Azadpur Mandi Goes Digital For Gate Pass Payments

Azadpur Mandi Goes Digital For Gate Pass Payments

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Azadpur Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) has introduced an online payment system for gate pass fees, aiming to reduce congestion, enhance transparency, and streamline operations at Asia's largest wholesale fruits and vegetables market. This digital initiative is expected to benefit traders, drivers, and other stakeholders by speeding up vehicle entry and minimising cash transactions.

Telegram responds to IT ministry on 'username' feature

Telegram responds to IT ministry on 'username' feature

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Messaging platform Telegram has submitted its reply to the IT Ministry's notice regarding its 'username' feature, which allows users to communicate without sharing phone numbers, following a similar submission by WhatsApp.

Tender Scam Blows Lid Off Bihar Corruption

Tender Scam Blows Lid Off Bihar Corruption

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

'As the Bihar government's focus is on development and infrastructure projects worth thousands of crores, Rishu Sinha created a network to pay a decent commission to government officials for securing tenders.'

SC judge recuses from hearing Jacqueline Fernandez's PMLA case

SC judge recuses from hearing Jacqueline Fernandez's PMLA case

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Supreme Court Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra has recused himself from hearing Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez's plea against a Delhi court order framing charges in a Rs 200-crore money laundering case, citing a conflict of interest.

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.

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.

Shah vows ruthless crackdown on infiltration, demographic changes

Shah vows ruthless crackdown on infiltration, demographic changes

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said the Centre is committed to curbing unnatural demographic growth caused by abnormal factors, such as infiltration, with a ruthless approach and a quadrangular security grid has been created for the purpose, transforming India's approach from reactive to proactive.

Police action ends 17-day Ken-Betwa protest, activist vows to continue fight

Police action ends 17-day Ken-Betwa protest, activist vows to continue fight

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

A 15-day protest against the Ken-Betwa Link Project and other development initiatives in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, concluded after police cleared the agitation site and dispersed protesters. While police denied arrests, protesters alleged their leader, Amit Bhatnagar, was detained amidst claims of project irregularities and corruption. The project aims to provide irrigation and drinking water to the drought-prone Bundelkhand region.

JPC defers bill to remove PM, CMs in the midst of voting

JPC defers bill to remove PM, CMs in the midst of voting

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A Joint Committee of Parliament has deferred the adoption of a draft report on a bill proposing the suspension, not permanent removal, of the prime minister, Union ministers, and chief ministers if detained for 30 days on serious criminal charges, opting for more consultations.

Sports Ministry Grants Conditional Recognition To Interim Judo Federation

Sports Ministry Grants Conditional Recognition To Interim Judo Federation

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has granted conditional recognition to the interim Executive Committee of the Judo Federation of India (JFI), which was elected following a Delhi High Court order. The recognition is subject to the outcome of ongoing court cases and strict compliance with the National Sports Governance Act, with warnings of suspension or revocation for irregularities. The JFI is required to amend its constitution, conduct final elections, and submit monthly compliance reports.

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Union Territory administration in Ladakh has announced the establishment of an Autonomous Hill Development Council (AHDC) for each of its seven districts, significantly expanding democratic decentralisation. This move extends elected local self-governance beyond Leh and Kargil, with a proposed Union Territory-level body under a customised Article 371 framework to oversee these councils.

Hyderabad teacher sacked for asking students to recite religious verses

Hyderabad teacher sacked for asking students to recite religious verses

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

A private school in Hyderabad has terminated a primary teacher after she assigned Islamic religious verses as homework, sparking controversy and prompting police intervention to ensure communal harmony. The incident led to protests and demands for action against the school from political and religious groups.

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.'

Rajasthan Government Prioritises Girls' Education And Development

Rajasthan Government Prioritises Girls' Education And Development

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced the state's focus on improving girls' education through infrastructure development and quality education initiatives. The government is also prioritising development in sectors like power and water, and aims to generate jobs in both the private and public sectors.

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.

Vigilance Busts Kerala Doctor For Dual Practice

Vigilance Busts Kerala Doctor For Dual Practice

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Vigilance officials in Kerala have uncovered a case where a government doctor was allegedly engaged in private practice while also receiving a non-practising allowance. The doctor, an associate professor, was found earning an additional Rs 7 lakh monthly from a private hospital, alongside his Rs 3 lakh government salary. This discovery is part of a wider crackdown, with nearly 200 doctors under surveillance.

Himachal Government Vows Action In 2022 Paper Leak Case

Himachal Government Vows Action In 2022 Paper Leak Case

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has assured strict action in the 2022 police recruitment paper leak case, following a CBI recommendation for penalties against police officers.

Jana Nayagan Review: Mass-y For Fans, Messy For Others

Jana Nayagan Review: Mass-y For Fans, Messy For Others

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

C Joseph Vijay's Jana Nayagan is not just a film but a potent political statement, strategically crafted to align with his political aspirations and claim the legacy of M G Ramachandran, notes Saisuresh Sivaswamy.

Supriya Sule rules out NDA switch, clarifies stand on delimitation bill

Supriya Sule rules out NDA switch, clarifies stand on delimitation bill

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Amid renewed speculation about political realignments and a potential merger, senior leaders from two Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. NCP (SP) working president Supriya Sule clarified her party's position on the proposed Delimitation Bill, stating that while a uniform 50 per cent increase in seats across states would be hard to oppose, any final decision would be made after discussions within the INDIA bloc.

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

A Class 8 student in Bengaluru died by suicide, with her parents alleging harassment and humiliation by school staff. The education department has launched an inquiry into the incident, which occurred after the girl and classmates complained about a teacher's harsh behaviour.

Satluj row: Ex-Punjab cop convicted in Khalra case untraceable

Satluj row: Ex-Punjab cop convicted in Khalra case untraceable

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Former Punjab Police DSP Jaspal Singh, a life convict in the 1995 abduction and murder of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been reported untraceable at the address provided in his jail records after being released on interim bail in May 2023, sparking a political controversy.

Bihar Official Killed, Chairman Hurt In Bhagalpur Shooting

Bihar Official Killed, Chairman Hurt In Bhagalpur Shooting

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

An official of the Sultanganj Nagar Parishad in Bihar's Bhagalpur was killed, while its chairman got critically injured on Tuesday when unidentified miscreants barged into the latter's chamber and allegedly opened fire, police said.

Maharashtra Government Enforces POSH Act For Workplace Safety

Maharashtra Government Enforces POSH Act For Workplace Safety

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Maharashtra government has directed strict implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act to protect women in the workplace, following a serious incident at a TCS unit in Nashik. Establishments with 10 or more employees must set up Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) and register on the Centre's She-Box portal, with failure to comply resulting in penalties.

Gold Imports Fall After Duty Hike

Gold Imports Fall After Duty Hike

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Monthly gold imports have declined to 25-30 tonnes from 70-80 tonnes while recycling of old jewellery has increased following the recent hike in import duties.

Haryana Sacks Official Over Rs 590 Crore Bank Fraud

Haryana Sacks Official Over Rs 590 Crore Bank Fraud

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

The Haryana government has dismissed an official from the Development and Panchayat Department in connection with a Rs 590 crore fraud case involving IDFC First Bank. The decision follows a detailed investigation that revealed a criminal conspiracy and substantial evidence against the official.

No plans for fuel rationing, supply adequate: Oil ministry official

No plans for fuel rationing, supply adequate: Oil ministry official

Rediff.com11 May 2026

India has no plans to ration fuel supplies despite ongoing disruptions in global energy markets, according to a top oil ministry official. The country has maintained adequate inventories of crude products and LPG while diversifying imports to manage supply risks.

Heavy rains with 80 kmph winds alert for Mumbai; WFH for pvt firms

Heavy rains with 80 kmph winds alert for Mumbai; WFH for pvt firms

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The India Meteorological Department has issued a 'red' alert for Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and warnings include potential flash floods, structural damage, and disruptions to essential services. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has also urged caution and deployed officials to monitor the situation.

Relief for Abhishek Banerjee as HC halts demolition of TMC MP's office

Relief for Abhishek Banerjee as HC halts demolition of TMC MP's office

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Calcutta High Court has ordered a status quo on the demolition of TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's constituency office in South 24 Parganas. The court's directive prevents further demolition until a new hearing or the end of July, following a petition by Leaps and Bounds Private Limited, a company Banerjee is CEO of. The district administration had initiated demolition citing alleged construction without an approved plan.

NDA parliamentary party meetings get new name: Mangal Milan

NDA parliamentary party meetings get new name: Mangal Milan

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The NDA's parliamentary party meetings will now be known as 'Mangal Milan', with the first under this new name scheduled for July 21. This change was informally discussed in the Union cabinet. Additionally, the newly formed Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), comprising 20 MPs who defected from the TMC, is seeking formal recognition and parliamentary facilities, including a party office and designated floor leaders.

Government To Expand Digital Food Subsidy Programme

Government To Expand Digital Food Subsidy Programme

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The government plans to expand its central bank digital currency (CBDC)-based food subsidy programme to Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman and Diu by June, following its implementation on a pilot basis in Gujarat and Puducherry, official sources said.

Have Foreign Assets? View Details In AIS

Have Foreign Assets? View Details In AIS

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The data may include details of foreign bank accounts, investment accounts, certain financial investments, interest income, dividends and other specified financial income held by Indian tax residents abroad.

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Nationwide protests against the NEET paper leak have intensified across several Indian states, with demonstrators condemning the Delhi Police crackdown and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Congress party has called for further demonstrations, while various student and political groups have organised marches and sit-ins, some leading to clashes with police.

What is hurting ease of doing business for Indian automakers?

What is hurting ease of doing business for Indian automakers?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Automobile manufacturers are increasingly vocal about the mounting paperwork and delays associated with India's Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for the automotive sector, arguing that compliance requirements are becoming as challenging as meeting technical eligibility conditions. They are pushing for a simpler, faster, and more predictable certification and compliance framework.

Govt cracks whip on Meta over child sexual abuse material on Instagram

Govt cracks whip on Meta over child sexual abuse material on Instagram

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The government has issued a stern notice to Meta on Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) in paid advertisements on Instagram, sources said on Sunday.

Anxiety Grows Over SIR Verification

Anxiety Grows Over SIR Verification

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The population is gripped by anxiety against arbitrariness and the cruelty of a state that sells its actions as minimum government, asserts Aakar Patel.

Security guard held, protests erupt after sexual assault on 8-year-old girl

Security guard held, protests erupt after sexual assault on 8-year-old girl

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

An 8-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a security guard in Mumbai's Pydhonie area, leading to his arrest and widespread public protests. Hundreds gathered outside the police station, demanding swift justice and stricter laws, drawing attention from political figures like MLA Rohit Pawar.

Bullet-proof vehicles, no straying: CRPF's SOP for Manipur

Bullet-proof vehicles, no straying: CRPF's SOP for Manipur

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has implemented a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for its personnel in Manipur, mandating the use of bulletproof vehicles and restricting stray movements, following recent ambushes on Assam Rifles troops. Concurrently, two elite CoBRA battalions have been deployed to conduct operations against armed miscreants, aiming to strengthen security and restore peace in the violence-hit state.