News for 'harmony'

Hindu outfit leader booked for reciting Hanuman Chalisa outside mosque

Hindu outfit leader booked for reciting Hanuman Chalisa outside mosque

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

According to the police report, Sirohi and his associates on Monday created a ruckus outside the mosque, claiming it to be illegal. They then recited Hanuman Chalisa (a prayer dedicated to lord Hanuman) near the mosque and allegedly threatened to demolish it, it stated.

Sunny OK With Pakistani Actors In Bollywood

Sunny OK With Pakistani Actors In Bollywood

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

A day before his film Jatt released, Sunny Deol made a comment, surprising those who are so used to his cinematic patriotic image and his Pakistan-bashing movies.

Violent clash in Meerut after Eid prayers, several injured

Violent clash in Meerut after Eid prayers, several injured

Rediff.com31 Mar 2025

At least half a dozen people are said to have been injured in the violence, although the police are yet to confirm the number.

More than 200 booked for Hazaribag religious clash

More than 200 booked for Hazaribag religious clash

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

An FIR has been lodged against 10 named and 200 unidentified individuals in connection with a clash and stone-pelting incident during a religious procession in Jharkhand's Hazaribag. The clash, involving two communities, broke out over the playing of an objectionable song. Police fired two rounds into the air to control the situation. The incident led to uproarious scenes in the Jharkhand Assembly with BJP MLAs demanding action against the perpetrators.

3 held for trying to perform havan, puja at Sambhal mosque

3 held for trying to perform havan, puja at Sambhal mosque

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

Three men from Delhi were detained in Sambhal, India, for allegedly attempting to perform Hindu rituals, including a havan and puja, at the Shahi Jama Masjid. The incident occurred on Friday, with police citing concerns about public order and potential disruption to communal harmony. The mosque is a site of ongoing religious tensions, with four people having died in violence last year related to a court-ordered survey. The detainees claimed they were attempting to perform rituals at a nearby Vishnu Harihar temple.

Sambhal CO cleared of controversial Holi, Jumma remark

Sambhal CO cleared of controversial Holi, Jumma remark

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

The Circle Officer (CO) of Sambhal, Anuj Chaudhary, has been cleared of any wrongdoing regarding his controversial remarks about Holi and Jumma (Friday) prayers. Chaudhary had previously stated that those uncomfortable with Holi celebrations should stay indoors, sparking criticism from some sections of the community. The police investigation was launched following a complaint by former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur.

Office Etiquette: What You Must NOT Do

Office Etiquette: What You Must NOT Do

Rediff.com29 Jan 2025

Office culture relies on mutual respect, decorum, and clear boundaries. By avoiding certain behaviours, you can help create a harmonious and productive workspace where everyone enjoys their work.

'We have just suspended our retaliatory action': PM's top 10 quotes

'We have just suspended our retaliatory action': PM's top 10 quotes

Rediff.com12 May 2025

Operation Sindoor has carved out a new benchmark in our fight against terrorism, and has set up a new parameter and new normal. Operation Sindoor is not just a name but a reflection of the emotions of millions of Indians. Operation Sindoor is an unwavering pledge for justice. Terrorists dared to wipe 'sindoor' from the foreheads of our sisters; that is why India destroyed the very headquarters of terror.

Allahabad HC junks Sambhal mosque's plea against survey

Allahabad HC junks Sambhal mosque's plea against survey

Rediff.com19 May 2025

The Committee of Management, Shahi Jama Masjid, moved the high court challenging the suit and the Sambhal court order which directed the survey through an advocate commissioner.

Harsh Goenka's 12 Tips For Spreading Workplace Cheer

Harsh Goenka's 12 Tips For Spreading Workplace Cheer

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

Fostering kindness doesn't require grand gestures; even the smallest acts can create a ripple effect, cultivating a more harmonious and effective work culture.

Mahua Moitra claims fish shops being shut down, Delhi police launches probe

Mahua Moitra claims fish shops being shut down, Delhi police launches probe

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

The Delhi Police will investigate claims by TMC MP Mahua Moitra that right-wing individuals attempted to force the closure of fish shops in South Delhi's Chittaranjan Park. Moitra posted videos and messages alleging the incident, while Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva denied the claims and called for community harmony. The police are verifying the incident's authenticity and the market's licensing status.

'Have they totally lost it?': Ashoka univ prof's arrest sparks outrage

'Have they totally lost it?': Ashoka univ prof's arrest sparks outrage

Rediff.com19 May 2025

Mahmudabad, head of the political science department at the private university, was arrested on Sunday after two FIRs were lodged on stringent charges, including endangering sovereignty and integrity, for his social media posts related to Operation Sindoor, police and his lawyer said.

Congress must be party of hope, not resentment: Tharoor

Congress must be party of hope, not resentment: Tharoor

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday urged the party to be a party of hope, not resentment, a party of the future not just of the past, and a party with a positive narrative and not just criticism. He also slammed the BJP for trying to divide North from South, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and national harmony. Tharoor highlighted the importance of economic growth and equitable distribution of its benefits, calling for the Congress to remain the voice of the voiceless.

Stalin to challenge Waqf Bill in SC, gets AIADMK support

Stalin to challenge Waqf Bill in SC, gets AIADMK support

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M K Stalin announced that his party will file a case in the Supreme Court against the Waqf Bill passed in the Lok Sabha. The opposition AIADMK expressed solidarity with the DMK's stance, while the BJP members staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest. The CM argued that the amendment was passed at the behest of a few allies despite opposition from majority parties and that it is an attack on the Constitution and religious harmony. The DMK claims the bill threatens the autonomy of the Waqf Board and the Muslim minority population.

China backs Pak, advocates 'fair probe' into Pahalgam attack

China backs Pak, advocates 'fair probe' into Pahalgam attack

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

China hopes both sides will remain restrained, move toward each other, and work together to de-escalate the situation.

Cheeka slams CSK: 'Why not try Prithvi Shaw?'

Cheeka slams CSK: 'Why not try Prithvi Shaw?'

Rediff.com12 Apr 2025

Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth launched a scathing tirade on struggling Chennai Super Kings following their fifth consecutive defeat in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League.

Case booked over namaaz at UP university during Holi

Case booked over namaaz at UP university during Holi

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

Police have registered a case after a video surfaced on social media showing students offering namaz at a private university during Holi celebrations. The university administration has suspended a student and three security personnel involved in the incident, while local Hindu groups have demanded the arrest of those involved. The case has been filed under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 299 and relevant provisions of the Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008.

When Hindus Greeted Muslims On Eid

When Hindus Greeted Muslims On Eid

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

'I am determined now to celebrate all festivals together.' 'People don't respond much when you try to convince them by talking about principles of secularism etc. But if we revive our shared cultural practices, specially food, we may get a better response.'

100 terrorists killed in Operation Sindoor: Rajnath Singh

100 terrorists killed in Operation Sindoor: Rajnath Singh

Rediff.com8 May 2025

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told an all-party meeting that at least 100 terrorists were killed in the Indian strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor'. Leaders from various parties showed maturity and extended all support to the government and armed forces.

Don't fall for riot provocation, Mamata warns on Eid

Don't fall for riot provocation, Mamata warns on Eid

Rediff.com31 Mar 2025

Addressing an Eid prayers programme on Red Road in Kolkata, the Trinamool Congress supremo claimed, "Provocations are being made to fuel riots, but please don't fall into these traps. The West Bengal government stands with the minorities. No one can provoke tensions in the state."

If I was wrong...: Sambhal cop on Jumma namaz remark

If I was wrong...: Sambhal cop on Jumma namaz remark

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

A Circle Officer (CO) in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India, defended his controversial remarks comparing the frequency of Holi and Friday prayers, calling for communal harmony. The CO, Anuj Chaudhary, had previously stated that Holi is a festival celebrated once a year while Jumma namaz takes place 52 times a year. He has since clarified that his intention was to emphasize the importance of respecting festivals of all religions and called for mutual respect and participation in each other's celebrations.

Modi, Egypt's grand mufti discuss social, religious harmony

Modi, Egypt's grand mufti discuss social, religious harmony

Rediff.com25 Jun 2023

The MEA said the Grand Mufti appreciated the Prime Minister's leadership in fostering inclusivity and pluralism.

Lakme Fashion Week's Grand Finale Was Lit

Lakme Fashion Week's Grand Finale Was Lit

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

As the runway shimmered with reimagined classics, the night became an ode to Indian fashion's impactful evolution.

Holi comes once a year, but Jumma 52 times: Sambhal cop sparks row

Holi comes once a year, but Jumma 52 times: Sambhal cop sparks row

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

A police officer in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has sparked outrage after suggesting that those uncomfortable with Holi colors should remain indoors, drawing criticism from opposition parties who accused him of bias and demanded action. The officer's remarks came during a peace committee meeting ahead of Holi, which coincides with Friday prayers during Ramzan. Opposition leaders condemned the statements, calling them "condemnable" and accusing the officer of acting as a "BJP agent." They demanded action against him for his "political statement." The incident comes after violence erupted in Sambhal last year during protests against a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque.

Student arrested for namaaz at UP varsity's open space after protests

Student arrested for namaaz at UP varsity's open space after protests

Rediff.com16 Mar 2025

A student was arrested in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly offering namaz in an open area of a private university. The arrest followed protests by local Hindu groups over a video that surfaced showing a group of students offering namaz on the university campus during Holi celebrations. The university administration suspended the student and three security personnel and called for police action. A case was registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act.

Shutdown after fresh clashes in curfew-hit Churachandpur, several hurt

Shutdown after fresh clashes in curfew-hit Churachandpur, several hurt

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

Fresh clashes broke out between people belonging to Zomi and Hmar tribes in Manipur's Churachandpur district, hours after a peace settlement was reached between the apex bodies of the two communities. The Zomi Students' Federation imposed a shutdown in the district after a group of men tried to take down a flag of a Zomi militant outfit. Several persons were injured in the clashes. Meanwhile, MLAs and tribal organisations appealed for peace, urging the administration to take necessary measures to restore law and order.

Ajit Pawar ticks off Nitesh Rane: No communal rift, please!

Ajit Pawar ticks off Nitesh Rane: No communal rift, please!

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has criticized his cabinet colleague, Nitesh Rane, for making "misleading" statements about Muslims not being part of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's army. Pawar, who heads the Nationalist Congress Party, called for restraint from political leaders and stressed the importance of maintaining communal harmony in the state. He emphasized that Shivaji Maharaj never discriminated based on caste or creed and highlighted the contributions of Muslims during his reign.

Bohras Launch Save Our Sparrows

Bohras Launch Save Our Sparrows

Rediff.com20 Mar 2025

dawoodi Bohra volunteers distributed around 50,000 bird feeders to households, schools, parks and community centres across the country.

Operation Sindoor is India's policy against terrorism

Operation Sindoor is India's policy against terrorism

Rediff.com12 May 2025

Presenting the full text of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation on May 12, 2025, in which he dictated India's new doctrines on countering terrorism.

Holi, Friday namaaz pass off peacefully in Sambhal

Holi, Friday namaaz pass off peacefully in Sambhal

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Holi and Friday prayers passed peacefully in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh amid tight security, officials said.

Can RSS Put Aurangzeb's Ghost To Rest in Maharashtra?

Can RSS Put Aurangzeb's Ghost To Rest in Maharashtra?

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

Senior RSS leader Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi's call to drop the Aurangzeb tomb controversy challenges decades of communal rhetoric in Maharashtra, igniting hopes for unity and a balanced historical narrative.

India revels in Holi, Friday prayers held peacefully

India revels in Holi, Friday prayers held peacefully

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Holi was celebrated with pomp and splendor across India on Friday, with people soaking in the festivities by smearing 'gulaal' on each other and exchanging greetings and sweets. Homes and streets wore a colourful look as the revellers splashed colours and feasted on traditional delicacies. Public transport did not ply in the morning in most major cities while metro services started functioning from noon. As Holi coincided with the second Friday prayers during the holy Islamic month of Ramzan, security -- including increased patrolling and picketing -- was beefed up in several states. In Delhi, more than 25,000 security personnel were deployed. Police closely monitored about 300 sensitive areas with CCTV cameras and drones.

Pahalgam Attack: Unfinished Battle Against Terrorism

Pahalgam Attack: Unfinished Battle Against Terrorism

Rediff.com30 Apr 2025

The Pahalgam massacre highlights the evolution of terrorism into a multi-domain challenge. India's response must similarly evolve -- from tactical retaliation to comprehensive strategic deterrence. To establish a credible and sustained deterrent, India must also carry out continuous kinetic operations, both overt and covert, suggest Sakshit Raina and Rahul Mishra. To establish a credible and sustained deterrent, India must also carry out continuous kinetic operations, both overt and covert, suggest Sakshit Raina & Rahul Mishra.

Holi celebrations till 2:30 pm, namaaz to follow in Sambhal on Mar 14

Holi celebrations till 2:30 pm, namaaz to follow in Sambhal on Mar 14

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

Authorities in the communally sensitive city of Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, have deployed seven companies of Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) ahead of Holi and the first Friday of Ramzan, which fall on the same day. Peace committee meetings have been held to ensure peaceful celebrations, with Hindus agreeing to play Holi till 2:30 pm and Muslims to offer Jumma namaz after that time.

SC cancels bail of 13 accused in child trafficking cases, raps HC

SC cancels bail of 13 accused in child trafficking cases, raps HC

Rediff.com15 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has taken a strong stance against child trafficking rackets, canceling the bail granted to 13 accused and criticizing the Uttar Pradesh government for its inaction. The court expressed concern over the rising number of trafficking cases and the changing patterns of the crime. It also directed the state to ensure trafficked children are admitted to schools and receive support for their education.

Holi processions in Sambhal to end by 2:30 pm for Friday prayers

Holi processions in Sambhal to end by 2:30 pm for Friday prayers

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

The mosques in Aligarh and Jama Masjid in Sambhal were covered with tarpaulin sheets as a precautionary measure following a decision by the local administration.

Meitei group surrenders 246 firearms in Manipur

Meitei group surrenders 246 firearms in Manipur

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

The Meitei group Arambai Tenggol surrendered 246 firearms to security forces in Manipur, bringing the total number of weapons surrendered to 307. The surrender follows a deadline set by Governor Ajay Bhalla for the return of illegal weapons. Arambai Tenggol's decision was influenced by assurances from the governor, including the eradication of opium poppy cultivation, implementation of border fencing, and a general amnesty for members of the group. Officials believe the surrender will contribute to restoring peace in the state, which has been rocked by ethnic violence for nearly two years. The police have urged others in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them before the deadline. Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh welcomed the surrender, calling it a "big step towards peace."

RBI's draft circular seeks to standardise gold loan regulations

RBI's draft circular seeks to standardise gold loan regulations

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Wednesday came out with comprehensive draft guidelines to harmonise and regulate gold loans across all financial entities, including putting a cap of 75 per cent on loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. The draft guidelines also aim to address concerns related to certain lending practices, provide clarity on specific aspects, and strengthen the conduct-related standards in the sector.

Narco-terror module busted in Punjab; 4 held, 4kg heroin seized

Narco-terror module busted in Punjab; 4 held, 4kg heroin seized

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

The Punjab Police has busted a narco-terror module and arrested four individuals, including a father-son duo, recovering 4 kilograms of heroin. The accused were in direct contact with Pakistan-based drug smugglers, according to Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav. The arrests were made in an intelligence-led operation by the Counter Intelligence (CI) unit in Amritsar, following inputs about individuals receiving a drug consignment from the Attari area. The DGP stated that preliminary investigations have revealed the involvement of a foreign-based individual identified as Bhullar, who is believed to be managing the gang.

'Last chance': Manipur governor extends arms surrender deadline

'Last chance': Manipur governor extends arms surrender deadline

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has extended the deadline for the surrender of looted and illegal arms until 4 PM on March 6 following requests from both hill and valley areas for additional time. The initial deadline for the voluntary surrender of arms ended on February 24. Bhalla has assured that no punitive action will be taken against those who surrender their weapons within this period, emphasising that "this is the last opportunity for everyone concerned to contribute to peace, communal harmony, the future of our youth, and the security of our society."