News for 'religious sites'

Hapur Arrests: Gangster Network Operatives Shared Religious Site Details

Hapur Arrests: Gangster Network Operatives Shared Religious Site Details

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Two men have been arrested in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly sharing photos and location details of religious sites with a Pakistan-based gangster network, raising concerns of a potential terror plot.

VHP wants Muslim sellers banned from Hindu religious sites

VHP wants Muslim sellers banned from Hindu religious sites

Rediff.com9 Jul 2024

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Tuesday claimed that Muslims are selling puja items at various Hindu pilgrimage sites by 'concealing' their identity and urged all state governments to take effective steps to prevent them from running such shops 'so that the faith of Hindus is not hurt'.

Bengal to enforce strict loudspeaker curbs at religious places, events

Bengal to enforce strict loudspeaker curbs at religious places, events

Rediff.com14 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari has directed police to take strict action against the use of loudspeakers beyond permissible sound limits at religious places and events across the state.

Threat email triggers terror alert across Delhi, Uttarakhand

Threat email triggers terror alert across Delhi, Uttarakhand

Rediff.com2 days ago

Intelligence agencies have issued a security alert for Delhi and Uttarakhand due to a possible terror threat, prompted by an email warning of attacks. Key religious sites, government establishments, and police installations are under heightened surveillance. The alert follows incidents involving Nihang Sikhs in Uttarakhand, though the email's authenticity is under investigation.

SC hearing on religious freedoms ends after 16 days; order reserved

SC hearing on religious freedoms ends after 16 days; order reserved

Rediff.com14 May 2026

A nine-judge Supreme Court bench has reserved its order on petitions related to discrimination against women at religious places, including the Sabarimala temple, and the scope of religious freedom.

Another ancient well with clean water found at religious site in Sambhal

Another ancient well with clean water found at religious site in Sambhal

Rediff.com23 Dec 2024

An ancient well with clean water has been discovered at a religious site in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The well, located at Kshem Nath Tirtha, was buried and closed off for a long time before being reopened. The discovery has delighted local devotees and is being seen as a divine blessing. The well is believed to be an historic water source that was previously used by pilgrims visiting the site.

All views welcome except from WhatsApp university: SC in religious discrimination case

All views welcome except from WhatsApp university: SC in religious discrimination case

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court of India has dismissed the use of information from 'WhatsApp University' as evidence in a case concerning religious freedom and discrimination against women at religious sites, including the Sabarimala Temple.

SP leader links U'khand tragedy to demolition of religious sites

SP leader links U'khand tragedy to demolition of religious sites

Rediff.com10 Aug 2025

Former Samajwadi Party MP S T Hasan links the Uttarakhand disaster to the demolition of religious sites, claiming it angers God and disrupts spiritual balance. He also cites environmental destruction as a contributing factor to increasing natural disasters.

HC applied Ayodhya verdict principles to Bhojshala case

HC applied Ayodhya verdict principles to Bhojshala case

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court referenced the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict principles while ruling on the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula mosque complex case, determining the site to be a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.

Muslim board to launch movement against community's 'marginalisation'

Muslim board to launch movement against community's 'marginalisation'

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) announced a nationwide movement against the 'deteriorating condition' and social and political marginalisation of Muslims in India, citing concerns over mob violence, demolition drives, and attempts to impose Vande Mataram.

No meat on the menu: Kashi vendors pushed to the outskirts ahead of Sawan month

No meat on the menu: Kashi vendors pushed to the outskirts ahead of Sawan month

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Varanasi Municipal Corporation's decision to relocate all meat, fish, and poultry shops outside city limits before the holy month of Sawan has ignited a debate among residents, traders, and political leaders, with supporters citing religious sentiments and critics raising concerns about convenience and livelihoods.

Interfaith marriage no ground to excommunicate Parsi women: SC

Interfaith marriage no ground to excommunicate Parsi women: SC

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Supreme Court of India has observed that the practice of excommunicating Parsi women for entering into interfaith marriages is prima facie discriminatory, emphasising that the right of conscience is a birthright.

'We Want To Boost Religious Tourism'

'We Want To Boost Religious Tourism'

Rediff.com17 Oct 2025

Rajasthan's finance department has approved about Rs 23 crore for the renovation, beautification and development of religious tourist destinations.

How Unnao Police Neutralised Priest Murder Accused

How Unnao Police Neutralised Priest Murder Accused

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The prime accused in the murder of a temple priest in Unnao, identified as Issrael, was killed in a police encounter early Monday. An SOG constable was injured during the exchange of fire. Issrael was wanted for the June 9 murder of Sant Ram Miland Das, which had caused tension in the area.

Anti-Encroachment Drive In Mumbai Slum Turns Violent

Anti-Encroachment Drive In Mumbai Slum Turns Violent

Rediff.com20 May 2026

An anti-encroachment drive in Mumbai's Bandra area turned violent after authorities demolished an alleged illegal religious structure, leading to stone-pelting by residents and a police lathi-charge.

Use of loudspeakers at religious sites only after permission: Maharashtra

Use of loudspeakers at religious sites only after permission: Maharashtra

Rediff.com18 Apr 2022

A day after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray reiterated his warning to take down loudspeakers from mosques by May 3, the state home department on Monday stated that the use of loudspeakers at religious sites will only be allowed with due permission.

UP has taken down 11,000 loudspeakers from religious sites

UP has taken down 11,000 loudspeakers from religious sites

Rediff.com28 Apr 2022

Following the direction of the Uttar Pradesh government, nearly 11,000 loudspeakers have been removed from religious places till Wednesday evening.

Maha aarti at Bhojshala; Muslims offer namaaz at homes amid protest

Maha aarti at Bhojshala; Muslims offer namaaz at homes amid protest

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Hundreds of Hindu devotees gathered at the Bhojshala complex in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, for a 'maha aarti' following a high court ruling declaring the site a temple. Members of the Muslim community protested peacefully by offering namaz at home wearing black bands.

Bhojshala verdict: Muslims to offer Friday namaz at home in protest

Bhojshala verdict: Muslims to offer Friday namaz at home in protest

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Members of the Muslim community in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district said they would offer their first Friday namaz at home and wear black bands after the court setback in the Bhojshala case.

Speeding Truck Kills Couple, Injures Son In Tragic Gorakhpur Accident

Speeding Truck Kills Couple, Injures Son In Tragic Gorakhpur Accident

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

A couple died and their seven-year-old son was seriously injured after a speeding truck hit their motorcycle in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. The truck driver fled the scene after abandoning the vehicle, while police have seized the truck and are searching for the culprit.

Delhi Police Uncover Major Fake Helicopter Booking Scam Targeting Pilgrims

Delhi Police Uncover Major Fake Helicopter Booking Scam Targeting Pilgrims

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Delhi Police have arrested three individuals, including a B.Tech student, for allegedly operating fake helicopter booking websites that defrauded pilgrims across India. The accused created fraudulent sites impersonating legitimate travel platforms, luring customers with online ads, and are linked to nearly 30 complaints totalling Rs 10 lakh in fraud.

Bhojshala a Saraswati temple, rules HC; suggests alternate land for mosque

Bhojshala a Saraswati temple, rules HC; suggests alternate land for mosque

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has declared the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar to be a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, suggesting the Muslim community seek land elsewhere for a mosque.

Gaya's Vishnupad Corridor Project: 'Vikas Nahi, Vinash Hai'

Gaya's Vishnupad Corridor Project: 'Vikas Nahi, Vinash Hai'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Priests see red over the Rs 2,390 crore project to overhaul infrastructure around one of Bihar's most significant pilgrimage site, particularly for those performing pind daan.

SC refuses delay in poll panel case, says it outweighs Sabarimala hearing

SC refuses delay in poll panel case, says it outweighs Sabarimala hearing

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The Supreme Court has declined the Centre's request to postpone the hearing on petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the 2023 law, which excludes the CJI from the committee responsible for appointing election commissioners, stating the matter is of utmost importance.

Heavy security at Bhojshala ahead of Friday prayers

Heavy security at Bhojshala ahead of Friday prayers

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Over 1,500 police personnel have been deployed around the Bhojshala in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, ahead of the first Friday since the high court declared it a Vagdevi temple.

Supreme Court questions ban on touching Sabarimala temple deity

Supreme Court questions ban on touching Sabarimala temple deity

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court questioned the chief priest of the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple regarding the constitutionality of preventing believers from touching the deity, during hearings on discrimination against women at religious sites.

'1.38L CCTVs, 51k jammers': Over 2.8L students to take NEET re-exam amid tight security

'1.38L CCTVs, 51k jammers': Over 2.8L students to take NEET re-exam amid tight security

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has implemented extensive security and logistical arrangements, including AI-based CCTV monitoring, biometric verification, and police escorts, to ensure the smooth, secure, and transparent conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.

Man Arrested in Connection with Delhi Firing, Extortion Plot

Man Arrested in Connection with Delhi Firing, Extortion Plot

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Delhi Police have arrested a 26-year-old man wanted in connection with a firing incident in Jagatpuri, Delhi, related to an extortion attempt allegedly orchestrated by a Punjab-based gangster.

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.

Day after HC verdict, devotees offer prayers at Bhojshala complex

Day after HC verdict, devotees offer prayers at Bhojshala complex

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Devotees entered the Bhojshala complex in Dhar district on Saturday to offer prayers after the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh high court declared the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex a temple and granted the Hindu side the right to worship at the site.

Bengal temple, shut for years, reopens after BJP's historic win

Bengal temple, shut for years, reopens after BJP's historic win

Rediff.com6 May 2026

In a momentous occasion after the Bharatiya Janata Party's win, the Durga temple in Asansol, reopened its doors to devotees after remaining shut for several years.

Tourist Nabbed for Theft at Tawang Monastery and Buddha Park

Tourist Nabbed for Theft at Tawang Monastery and Buddha Park

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

A tourist from West Bengal was apprehended in Arunachal Pradesh for allegedly stealing religious items from the Tawang Monastery and Giant Buddha Statue Park. The stolen items were recovered, and the tourist was released with a warning.

The Last Trip With My Father

The Last Trip With My Father

Rediff.com4 days ago

At Kolga Aabla, the closest beach to her grandmother's home, at the edge of a birch forest, we immersed her balance ashes. It was a sombre, precious day for both of us. But a day that also brought long-needed closure. My mother's spirit, chained for so many years in a Parkinson's-locked body, was free. But my father came back from the beach a visibly older man.

Anti-encroachment drive in Mumbai slum turns violent, 3 cops injured

Anti-encroachment drive in Mumbai slum turns violent, 3 cops injured

Rediff.com20 May 2026

A demolition drive targeting an alleged illegal religious structure in a Mumbai slum led to clashes between residents and police, resulting in injuries and detentions.

Nashik TCS officer denied bail over inaction on sexual harassment complaint

Nashik TCS officer denied bail over inaction on sexual harassment complaint

Rediff.com17 May 2026

A Nashik court has denied bail to a TCS site head, Ashwini Chainani, in a sexual harassment and conversion case, citing her failure to act on the victim's complaints. The court also rejected bail for other accused individuals in the case.

Bihar Police Tightens Security Ahead of Holi Celebrations

Bihar Police Tightens Security Ahead of Holi Celebrations

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Bihar Police have announced increased security measures ahead of the Holi festival to prevent disturbances and maintain law and order.

Temple linked to godman Kharat got Rs 1 cr from Maha govt

Temple linked to godman Kharat got Rs 1 cr from Maha govt

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government sanctioned over Rs 1 crore for development works at a temple linked to Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman accused of rape, in 2018. The funds were approved under the regional tourism development scheme. Kharat was arrested on March 18 after being accused of repeated rape.

Hindu Groups Protest Over Student Suicide In Tonk

Hindu Groups Protest Over Student Suicide In Tonk

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Family members and Hindu organisations protested in Tonk, Rajasthan, demanding arrests in connection with the alleged suicide of a 17-year-old student. The protesters allege the student was pressured to convert to Islam.

Delhi on alert over LeT terror plot to 'avenge' Pak mosque blast

Delhi on alert over LeT terror plot to 'avenge' Pak mosque blast

Rediff.com21 Feb 2026

The alert comes in the backdrop of the deadly car explosion near the historic Red Fort on November 10, 2025, which killed at least 13 people.

SC seeks info on religious sites damaged in Gujarat riots

SC seeks info on religious sites damaged in Gujarat riots

Rediff.com9 Jul 2012

The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Gujarat government to file a survey report of the religious sites which were damaged and destroyed during the 2002 riots in the state. A bench of justices K S Radhakrishnan and Dipak Misra also asked the state government to quantify the amount needed for building and repairing those sites that were affected by the riots.