News for 'religious harmony'

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Protests

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Protests

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Statues of Kakori train action martyrs were allegedly demolished during road beautification work in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, leading to widespread protests and an FIR being filed against the responsible company.

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Political Fury

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Political Fury

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Statues of Kakori train action martyrs in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, were allegedly demolished during road beautification work, sparking outrage and demands for action against those responsible.

Ghooskhor Pandat row: Neeraj Pandey withdraws title, SC disposes of plea

Ghooskhor Pandat row: Neeraj Pandey withdraws title, SC disposes of plea

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has disposed of a plea against the Netflix film 'Ghooskhor Pandit' after filmmaker Neeraj Pandey withdrew the title and promotional material. The court acknowledged Pandey's affidavit and expects the controversy to be resolved.

TN assembly passes resolution against Waqf bill, asks for recall

TN assembly passes resolution against Waqf bill, asks for recall

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

The Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution on Thursday condemning the Centre's proposed Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, calling for its recall. Chief Minister M K Stalin argued that the amendment interferes with religious affairs and would negatively impact the Muslim minority. The resolution was unanimously passed by the Assembly, with support from all parties, including the opposition AIADMK and PMK. The BJP, however, walked out in protest, accusing the ruling DMK of engaging in divisive politics. The bill aims to streamline the Waqf Board's work and ensure efficient management of Waqf properties but has been criticized for potentially encroaching on religious freedom and autonomy. The Tamil Nadu government claims that the amendment would lead to government control over the Waqf Board and its properties, impacting its autonomy and potentially allowing for government acquisition of Muslim-owned lands.

Statues of Kakori martyrs razed in UP, FIR filed

Statues of Kakori martyrs razed in UP, FIR filed

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The demolition of statues of Kakori train action martyrs in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, has sparked widespread outrage and political condemnation, leading to an FIR and government action.

'Unspeakable atrocities against non-Muslims': Hasina slams Yunus

'Unspeakable atrocities against non-Muslims': Hasina slams Yunus

Rediff.com26 Dec 2025

Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's deposed prime minister, has accused the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus of committing atrocities against non-Muslims and interfering with religious freedom.

Don't judge people by caste, wealth or language: Bhagwat

Don't judge people by caste, wealth or language: Bhagwat

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized the importance of social harmony, environmental responsibility, and national unity, urging people to rise above divisions and work collectively for the betterment of society and the nation.

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The trailer of the film, produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah and directed by Kamakhya Narain Singh, released on Tuesday and landed straight into controversy. It tracks the stories of three Hindu women from three different states going against their families to marry Muslim men and then being forced to convert.

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

The upcoming Hindi film 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond' is embroiled in controversy, similar to its predecessor, with accusations of hate propaganda and defenses of legitimate concern over religious conversion.

FIR Against Ghooskhor Pandat; Promos Taken Down

FIR Against Ghooskhor Pandat; Promos Taken Down

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

'The story of Ghooskhor Pandat focuses on an individual's actions and choices and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion, or community. As a filmmaker, I approach my work with a deep sense of responsibility -- to tell stories that are thoughtful and respectful.'

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.

Yogi warns over 'fake' Manikarnika Ghat posts; 8 FIRs filed

Yogi warns over 'fake' Manikarnika Ghat posts; 8 FIRs filed

Rediff.com18 Jan 2026

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said strict action would be taken against those misleading the public on social media about the ongoing work at Manikarnika Ghat.

Decked churches, midnight masses: India celebrates Christmas

Decked churches, midnight masses: India celebrates Christmas

Rediff.com25 Dec 2025

Christmas was celebrated with devotion and festive gaiety across India, with churches decked in lights, midnight masses, and community events spreading cheer. Leaders extended greetings, and celebrations took place in various states with prayers for peace and harmony.

Turkman Gate violence: Whatsapp groups, 10 influencers under scanner

Turkman Gate violence: Whatsapp groups, 10 influencers under scanner

Rediff.com8 Jan 2026

According to police, rumours claiming the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was demolishing the mosque spread primarily through voice notes shared across community, religious and neighbourhood WhatsApp groups ahead of a court-ordered anti-encroachment drive.

Karnataka cabinet approves bills on hate speech, cattle slaughter

Karnataka cabinet approves bills on hate speech, cattle slaughter

Rediff.com4 Dec 2025

The Karnataka cabinet has approved eight draft bills, including those addressing hate speech, cattle slaughter, and social boycott, to be tabled in the upcoming legislative session.

'I Would Like To Do My Gareeb Films'

'I Would Like To Do My Gareeb Films'

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

'Filmmaking is such a weird line of work, artistic expression and collaboration.' 'It is letting go, then holding on to something, being democratic and then being tyrannical.'

'Hindu Unity Is Not What I Am Aiming At'

'Hindu Unity Is Not What I Am Aiming At'

Rediff.com30 Jan 2026

'The Kerala of today is not the Kerala of yesterday.' 'What has seeped into this society is the feeling of hatred towards other castes and religions.'

MP principal shifted for forcing students to chant 'Allahu Akbar'

MP principal shifted for forcing students to chant 'Allahu Akbar'

Rediff.com4 Dec 2025

The in-charge principal of a government school in Madhya Pradesh's Seoni district was removed for allegedly pressuring students to raise the Islamic slogan 'Allahu Akbar' at a 'Gita Jayanti' event.

Catholic body moves HC against content of Malayalam movie Haal

Catholic body moves HC against content of Malayalam movie Haal

Rediff.com17 Oct 2025

The Catholic Congress has raised concerns about the Malayalam movie 'Haal,' alleging objectionable content and potential religious disharmony. The matter is now before the Kerala High Court.

Catholic body moves HC against content of Malayalam film Haal

Catholic body moves HC against content of Malayalam film Haal

Rediff.com17 Oct 2025

The Catholic Congress has raised concerns in the Kerala High Court about the Malayalam movie 'Haal', alleging objectionable content that could cause religious disharmony. The court is set to decide on the producer's request to view the film.

Maintain communal harmony at all costs: Akhilesh to officials

Maintain communal harmony at all costs: Akhilesh to officials

Rediff.com18 May 2012

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Friday warned top state officials to maintain communal harmony at all costs.

FCRA licence of NGOs will be scrapped if..., warns govt

FCRA licence of NGOs will be scrapped if..., warns govt

Rediff.com11 Nov 2024

FCRA registration will also be cancelled if any NGO is not utilising foreign funding as per the aims and objectives of the NGO or if it has not uploaded the annual returns, the ministry said.

Kukis, Meiteis serve in same unit with harmony because....: Gen Dwivedi

Kukis, Meiteis serve in same unit with harmony because....: Gen Dwivedi

Rediff.com28 Nov 2024

India's Army Chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, emphasized the Indian Army's role as a "melting pot" and cited the harmony between Kuki and Meitei soldiers in the same units as an example of the force's unifying nature. He made the remarks during a lecture in Pune, highlighting the Army's efforts to promote unity and integration within its ranks. General Dwivedi also touched upon the Army's role in internal security in Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast, and the upcoming Olympics.

Pak broke Indus treaty spirit with 3 wars, terror attacks, India tells UN

Pak broke Indus treaty spirit with 3 wars, terror attacks, India tells UN

Rediff.com24 May 2025

India has accused Pakistan of violating the spirit of the Indus Waters Treaty by engaging in acts of terrorism and refusing to modify the treaty. India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, addressed the UN Security Council, highlighting Pakistan's disinformation regarding the treaty and its continued support for cross-border terrorism. He stated that India has always acted responsibly as an upper riparian state and that Pakistan's actions have jeopardized civilian lives, religious harmony, and economic prosperity. India has suspended the treaty until Pakistan ends its support for terrorism.

'Kamasutra and Christmas' event in Goa cancelled after outrage

'Kamasutra and Christmas' event in Goa cancelled after outrage

Rediff.com24 Nov 2025

The Goa police have ordered the cancellation of the four-day event, which was advertised on social media under the banner of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh Foundation.

Akhilesh Yadav takes holy dip at Maha Kumbh, says prayed for harmony

Akhilesh Yadav takes holy dip at Maha Kumbh, says prayed for harmony

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav took a holy dip in the Sangam at Maha Kumbh on Sunday, urging the BJP to bathe with "patience." He criticized the BJP for splashing water on each other after bathing in the Sangam, saying people come to Kumbh for virtue and charity, not for water sports. Yadav, who had earlier taken a dip in the Ganga river in Haridwar on Makar Sankranti, said he had always visited the religious congregation. The latest official figures show that 1.17 crore people took a dip in the Sangam till late Sunday afternoon, bringing the total number of 'snan' (bath) in Maha Kumbh since its start to 11.47 crore.

Assam Bans Jihadi Digital Content

Assam Bans Jihadi Digital Content

Rediff.com15 Dec 2025

Officials said the digital ban was intended to disrupt ideological channels that facilitate cross-border radicalisation, particularly in areas where socio-economic vulnerabilities are exploited by extremist networks.

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.

Who is VHP to decide?: Union Minister on 'Hindu only' garba diktat

Who is VHP to decide?: Union Minister on 'Hindu only' garba diktat

Rediff.com21 Sep 2025

The Union minister said such calls were tantamount to "inviting violence".

Poonam Pandey Dropped From Ramleela

Poonam Pandey Dropped From Ramleela

Rediff.com23 Sep 2025

The Luv Kush Ramleela Committee in Delhi has dropped Poonam Pandey from playing Mandodari in this year's Ramleela following opposition from several groups.

Journalist booked for sedition over remarks on Centre, Assam govt

Journalist booked for sedition over remarks on Centre, Assam govt

Rediff.com21 Aug 2025

Guwahati police have registered an FIR against journalist and YouTuber Abhisar Sharma for allegedly ridiculing the Assam and Union governments and promoting religious enmity. The FIR invokes Sections 152, 196, and 197 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

Students clash at Delhi's SAU over non-veg food on Maha Shivratri

Students clash at Delhi's SAU over non-veg food on Maha Shivratri

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

According to an official statement by SFI Delhi, the ABVP members attacked some students in the university mess for not complying with their demand that non-vegetarian food should not be served on Maha Shivratri.

Will Deepa Thoon Controversy Damage Stalin's DMK?

Will Deepa Thoon Controversy Damage Stalin's DMK?

Rediff.com9 Dec 2025

The Deepa Thoon controversy, if not allowed to die a natural death, could take the election focus away from the anti-incumbency impacting the DMK and into the secular space. Stalin would love to have it that way, all over again, after the three past elections, points out N Sathiya Moorthy.

Dalai Lama's successor must get China's nod, says Beijing; US rift likely

Dalai Lama's successor must get China's nod, says Beijing; US rift likely

Rediff.com2 Jul 2025

His successor issue is also expected to flare up fresh tensions between Beijing and Washington as China's policy comes in conflict with the US Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2020, which reaffirmed America's steadfast support for the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhism.

Avatar: Fire And Ash Review: Predictable

Avatar: Fire And Ash Review: Predictable

Rediff.com19 Dec 2025

Avatar: Fire And Ash is visually stunning and emotionally engaging, offering strong performances and thrilling action, notes Syed Firdaus Ashraf.

TN: HC tells petitioner to light hill lamp with CISF protection

TN: HC tells petitioner to light hill lamp with CISF protection

Rediff.com4 Dec 2025

Despite an earlier direction by the Bench, the lamp was not lit on an ancient stone pillar near a Dargah on the Thirupparankudram hill here on Karthigai Deepam this evening, triggering protests by the Hindu Munnani activists and a section of devotees.

Whatever is made here, don't import: RSS chief Bhagwat

Whatever is made here, don't import: RSS chief Bhagwat

Rediff.com28 Aug 2025

'Whatever is necessary for life and is not made in your country, we will import it from outside.'

Vijayan slams 'The Kerala Story' for depicting state as religiously extreme

Vijayan slams 'The Kerala Story' for depicting state as religiously extreme

Rediff.com30 Apr 2023

Vijayan said that the trailer of the Hindi film, at first glance, appears to be "deliberately produced" with the alleged aim of creating communal polarisation and spreading hate propaganda against the state.

Bollywood's 10 Royal Romances

Bollywood's 10 Royal Romances

Rediff.com8 May 2025

Sukanya Verma looks at instances of aristocrats falling for commoners on the silver screen.

School well poisoned to force out Muslim headmaster: Siddaramaiah

School well poisoned to force out Muslim headmaster: Siddaramaiah

Rediff.com3 Aug 2025

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the alleged poisoning of drinking water at a government school in Belagavi district, reportedly to force the transfer of a Muslim headmaster. He termed it a 'heinous act' driven by religious hatred and fundamentalism.