News for 'holding centres'

Bengal mulls holding centres near Bangladesh border

Bengal mulls holding centres near Bangladesh border

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The West Bengal government is considering establishing holding centres near the Petrapole border in North 24 Parganas district to manage growing movement and congestion in border areas.

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Rediff.com25 May 2026

West Bengal's Bharatiya Janata Party government has moved to institutionalise its "detect, delete and deport" policy by directing all district administrations to set up "holding centres" for suspected illegal foreigners and foreign prisoners awaiting repatriation -- a step that appeared to give administrative shape to one of the party's most potent political themes in the state.

No snooping at Jantar Mantar, only law and order, Centre tells HC

No snooping at Jantar Mantar, only law and order, Centre tells HC

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Delhi High Court is hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the "intrusive surveillance" of protesters at Jantar Mantar. The Solicitor General argued that videography is for law and order, not snooping, while the petitioner contended it violates privacy. The court has asked police about protest regulation guidelines.

Abuse charges rock Kerala Christian prayer centre, BJP protests

Abuse charges rock Kerala Christian prayer centre, BJP protests

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

A Christian worship centre in Omallur, Kerala, faced protests from BJP workers following allegations that staff members assaulted a 17-year-old boy. Police have arrested three individuals, including the manager, after a Child Welfare Committee inquiry indicated potential exploitation of children housed at the facility.

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

N Kalaiselvi, the first woman Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has received an extension to her tenure until February 2027. Known for her pioneering work in lithium-ion batteries, Kalaiselvi's extended leadership marks a significant milestone for women in Indian science.

IDBI employees' forum opposes stake sale to Fairfax, seeks review

IDBI employees' forum opposes stake sale to Fairfax, seeks review

Rediff.com6 days ago

The United Forum of IDBI Officers & Employees has voiced "profound concern" over the Centre's reported decision to proceed with the strategic disinvestment of its controlling stake in IDBI Bank to Fairfax Financial Holdings, urging a parliamentary review of the proposed sale.

Harbhajan Singh seeks united push to end protests over NEET paper leak

Harbhajan Singh seeks united push to end protests over NEET paper leak

Rediff.com2 days ago

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh on Friday welcomed activist Sonam Wangchuk's decision to end his 26-day hunger strike, saying dialogue and trust are better than confrontation to resolve the crisis pertaining to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak.

RIL to build Meta's first AI data centre in India

RIL to build Meta's first AI data centre in India

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Meta has partnered with Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) to construct its first AI-powered data centre in India, a 168-megawatt facility located in Jamnagar, marking a significant milestone in Meta's global infrastructure expansion and deepening its strategic partnership with Reliance.

Ended fast fearing...: Sonam Wangchuk rejects 'deal' charge

Ended fast fearing...: Sonam Wangchuk rejects 'deal' charge

Rediff.com1 days ago

Sonam Wangchuk has strongly denied allegations of a 'deal' with the Centre, clarifying that he concluded his 26-day hunger strike only after receiving a crucial written assurance.

Xi Watching? Modi-Takaichi to Hold Talks In Assam

Xi Watching? Modi-Takaichi to Hold Talks In Assam

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Japanese PM's visit to Assam comes amid festering uneasiness in Tokyo about Beijing's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sanjay Manjrekar backs NEET-UG protesters, calls for student empowerment

Sanjay Manjrekar backs NEET-UG protesters, calls for student empowerment

Rediff.com2 days ago

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has publicly thrown his support behind students protesting the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, emphasising the importance of empowering India's youth amidst ongoing demonstrations and calls for systemic educational reform.

CJP stir foreign funded? Delhi HC to hear PIL on Friday

CJP stir foreign funded? Delhi HC to hear PIL on Friday

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Delhi High Court will hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking an investigation into the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protest at Jantar Mantar. The PIL alleges that the protest, initially framed as a student agitation, involved political leaders, foreign-funded organisations, and resulted in public disruption and damage, raising concerns about national security and public order.

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to enact a stringent law against religious conversion and implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. He linked these measures to strengthening national security and preserving Bengal's cultural identity, citing concerns over infiltration and demographic changes. Adhikari also highlighted efforts in border security, distinguished between illegal immigrants and CAA refugees, and paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

Countdown to NEET re-exam: NTA to hold nationwide mock drill on Saturday

Countdown to NEET re-exam: NTA to hold nationwide mock drill on Saturday

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct a nationwide mock drill on Saturday ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination the day after as part of its preparations to ensure the smooth, secure and transparent conduct of the test, official said on Friday.

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Indian government has amended the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) rules, introducing stricter regulations for NGOs receiving foreign funds. Key changes include mandatory selection of predefined purposes and areas of operation, restrictions on foreign nationals as key functionaries, and explicit exclusion of proselytisation from certain faith-based activities. The amendments also introduce minimum spending limits, enhanced financial accountability, and increased transparency requirements, including social media disclosure and ultimate donor identification.

Centre To Release Funds To Bolster Mizoram's Power Sector

Centre To Release Funds To Bolster Mizoram's Power Sector

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced the Centre's readiness to release Rs 6 crore to Mizoram to strengthen its power sector. The announcement came during a meeting with BJP leaders in Aizawl, where issues concerning Mizoram, including pending central funds and housing schemes, were discussed.

'Reverse exodus' at Bengal border amid deportation drive

'Reverse exodus' at Bengal border amid deportation drive

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The renewed rush comes days after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that West Bengal would aggressively implement a 'detect, delete and deport' policy against infiltrators.

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shared a fabricated social media post attributed to former US President Donald Trump, captioned 'If only!', to highlight his demand for the restoration of J&K's statehood, drawing significant criticism online.

Vijay's government to hold social justice survey, move court for financial devolution

Vijay's government to hold social justice survey, move court for financial devolution

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu Governor RV Arlekar announced that the TVK regime, led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, will take steps to ensure fair financial devolution from the Centre, including pursuing the matter in the Supreme Court. The government also plans to conduct a 'Social Justice Survey' and address the state's severe financial deterioration.

Top education ministry officials shifted amid nationwide protests

Top education ministry officials shifted amid nationwide protests

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Indian education ministry has undergone a significant reshuffle of top officials, including the removal of higher education secretary Vineet Joshi, amidst widespread controversies surrounding NEET-UG paper leaks and CBSE digital evaluation glitches, with the opposition demanding the resignation of Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Coaching owner paid Rs 5 lakh to NTA panel member for NEET questions: CBI

Coaching owner paid Rs 5 lakh to NTA panel member for NEET questions: CBI

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The CBI has revealed that Shivraj Raghunath Motegaonkar, a coaching centre owner arrested in the NEET paper leak case, allegedly paid Rs 5 lakh to an NTA panel member, P V Kulkarni, for leaked chemistry questions. The agency recovered handwritten notes matching NTA's master question sets from Motegaonkar's phone, taken days before the exam.

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Nirmohi Akhara has approached the Supreme Court, seeking a directive to the Centre to reconstitute the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Theerth Kshetra Trust as a 'public trust' and include structural safeguards for oversight by seers, citing alleged large-scale embezzlement of donations.

Govt defends video-recording of Jantar Mantar protests

Govt defends video-recording of Jantar Mantar protests

Rediff.com2 days ago

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has argued that video-recording of the ongoing CJP-led protest against the NEET paper leak at Jantar Mantar is in 'legitimate state interest' for security reasons, while petitioners allege 'continuous, indiscriminate and intrusive surveillance'.

US deploys sea, air attack drones for first time in Iran war

US deploys sea, air attack drones for first time in Iran war

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched extensive precision strikes across multiple Iranian military installations, deploying both one-way attack aerial and sea drones for the first time, to degrade Tehran's ability to disrupt international maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz.

Modi breaks silence on NEET row, calls paper leaks 'ghor paap'

Modi breaks silence on NEET row, calls paper leaks 'ghor paap'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has affirmed strong action against NEET paper leak culprits and urged state governments to collaborate with the Centre to prevent future incidents, emphasising national interest over party politics. He highlighted the successful re-examination and arrests made.

Next agitation to be 10 times bigger: Rahul's warning to BJP-RSS

Next agitation to be 10 times bigger: Rahul's warning to BJP-RSS

Rediff.com1 days ago

Following Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation amidst widespread student protests over the NEET paper leak, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi congratulated the youth, calling it a crucial step for education reform, and urged broader public action to hold the government accountable, demanding an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Rediff.com5 days ago

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee has urged the Congress and CPI(M) to set aside their differences and unite under the INDIA bloc to fight the BJP in West Bengal. This marks a significant shift in the TMC's stance, which has historically been a bitter rival to the Congress and Left in the state.

3 Chair Yoga Poses You Can Try In Office

3 Chair Yoga Poses You Can Try In Office

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Yoga expert Pushpa R recommends three seated yoga poses that will help you stretch, relax and feel flexible at work.

'Hum Jeet Gaye': Tears, joy at Jantar Mantar after Pradhan resigns

'Hum Jeet Gaye': Tears, joy at Jantar Mantar after Pradhan resigns

Rediff.com1 days ago

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned following weeks of widespread protests and public outrage over examination paper leaks, particularly the NEET-UG controversy, leading to jubilant scenes at Jantar Mantar as demonstrators declared 'victory'.

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Rediff.com4 days ago

Union minister J P Nadda on Wednesday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of playing politics over the NEET paper leak and urged the Opposition to allow an "intensive" discussion on the issue in Parliament to find a "permanent solution" to the problem, instead of indulging in a blame game.

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.com3 days ago

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.

Sonam Wangchuk writes to govt, offers to end hunger strike if...

Sonam Wangchuk writes to govt, offers to end hunger strike if...

Rediff.com4 days ago

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has stated he will end his indefinite hunger strike if the Centre provides an unequivocal assurance that no punitive or retaliatory action will be taken against students and youth who participated in protests against alleged examination irregularities.

Sedans Hold Ground In Luxury Market Despite SUV Wave

Sedans Hold Ground In Luxury Market Despite SUV Wave

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

While SUVs have steadily gained share across the industry, data shows that nearly three in 10 luxury vehicles sold in India are sedans, highlighting the segment's resilience despite years of SUV-led growth.

CEA Calls For Industry Investment In Skilling, Innovation For GCCs

CEA Calls For Industry Investment In Skilling, Innovation For GCCs

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran has urged the industry to invest in skilling, capability development, and innovation to counter the challenges posed by artificial intelligence, particularly for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). He noted that while the government has supported GCCs through Budget measures like simplifying transfer pricing and promoting expansion into tier-II/III cities, industry must move beyond low-cost execution to thrive in an an AI-driven landscape. Nageswaran emphasised that AI displaces routine tasks, necessitating a focus on higher-value work and continuous skill enhancement to maintain India's competitive edge.

'Taken court for a ride': SC raps Samay Raina, 4 others; imposes Rs 3 lakh fine

'Taken court for a ride': SC raps Samay Raina, 4 others; imposes Rs 3 lakh fine

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court of India has strongly criticised comedian Samay Raina and YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia and Ashish Chanchlani for failing to comply with its previous order regarding disability awareness. The court expressed dismay over Raina's non-compliance and his alleged insensitive remarks about persons with disabilities, urging the Centre to consider a stringent law against such derogatory comments.

Cong's Pawan Khera meets Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar

Cong's Pawan Khera meets Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Congress leader Pawan Khera met activist Sonam Wangchuk and members of the Cockroach Janata Party protesting at Jantar Mantar against alleged NEET paper leaks. The protest demands the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, with Wangchuk on an indefinite fast. Other opposition leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Dimple Yadav, have also shown solidarity.

Rahul brings protester 'injured by pellet gun' before media

Rahul brings protester 'injured by pellet gun' before media

Rediff.com2 days ago

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified his criticism of the government, demanding the immediate removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi following alleged pellet gun injuries to student protesters.

Youth Protest: The Lasting Lessons

Youth Protest: The Lasting Lessons

Rediff.com1 days ago

At the end of this journey, no matter now it ends, these youngsters will know something essential about the Indian government, the Indian judiciary, the Indian media, the Indian police, the Indian laws and indeed about Indian society, asserts Aakar Patel.

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Rediff.com3 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced stringent measures, including the establishment of fast-track courts, to combat exam paper leaks and protect the future of India's youth, following widespread protests over the NEET paper leak.

'Desperate' Modi, 'pathetic' video: Cong slams PM over midnight address to nation

'Desperate' Modi, 'pathetic' video: Cong slams PM over midnight address to nation

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Congress party has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent video message on paper leaks as an 'eyewash', demanding the sacking of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and accountability for the alleged brutality against student protestors. The party highlighted the government's initial denial of the NEET-UG 2026 leak and its perceived failure to address widespread irregularities.