News for 'social justice'

Ramdev pledges no more Rooh Afza remarks, HC closes case

Ramdev pledges no more Rooh Afza remarks, HC closes case

Rediff.com9 May 2025

Yoga guru Ramdev has pledged not to pass any further disparaging remarks against Hamdard's Rooh Afza, leading the Delhi High Court to close a case filed by Hamdard National Foundation India against Ramdev and his Patanjali Foods Ltd. The court ordered the removal of controversial online content and accepted Ramdev's assurance to not make any further disparaging statements. Ramdev had previously made controversial remarks about Rooh Afza, claiming that the money earned from its sales was used to build madrasas and mosques. The court deemed his statements as 'indefensible' and 'shook its conscience'.

Ex-CJI Khehar, dancer Shobana among 68 conferred Padma awards

Ex-CJI Khehar, dancer Shobana among 68 conferred Padma awards

Rediff.com27 May 2025

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the coveted Padma awards on 68 eminent personalities, including former Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar, dancer Shobana Chandrakumar, actor Anant Nag, and Vice Chancellor of King George's Medical University Soniya Nityanand. The awards were given in various disciplines and fields, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service. The Padma Vibhushan was awarded to Justice (retd) Khehar for public affairs, while nine individuals received the Padma Bhushan. The Padma Shri was awarded to leading immunologist and KGMU VC Nityanand, footballer Inivalappil Mani Vijayan, singer Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, actor Ashok Laxman Saraf, mask maker Reba Kanta Mahanta, and musician Ricky Gyan Kej, among others.

HC summons to commentator Abhijit in women scribes' defamation suit

HC summons to commentator Abhijit in women scribes' defamation suit

Rediff.com26 May 2025

The Delhi High Court has issued summons to commentator Abhijit Iyer Mitra in a defamation lawsuit filed by nine women journalists from Newslaundry. The journalists allege that Mitra used "derogatory terms and slurs" while making "defamatory, false, malicious and unsubstantiated allegations" on X (formerly Twitter). While Mitra has deleted the allegedly defamatory content, the court has directed him to submit written submissions and has reminded him of the limits of free speech. The court has also asked the social media platform X to provide its stand on the matter.

HC orders Ramdev to remove 'sharbat jiahd' video within 24 hrs

HC orders Ramdev to remove 'sharbat jiahd' video within 24 hrs

Rediff.com1 May 2025

The Delhi High Court has ordered Yoga guru Ramdev to remove within 24 hours an offensive video targeting Hamdard, manufacturers of Rooh Afza, from social media platforms. The court previously ordered him not to issue any statement or share videos in future similar to those before it and relating to products of competitors including Hamdard. Ramdev was accused of contempt in a row over his controversial "sharbat jihad" remarks against the drink.

His remarks like 'dog whistling': SC grants bail to Ashoka univ prof

His remarks like 'dog whistling': SC grants bail to Ashoka univ prof

Rediff.com21 May 2025

The bench, which examined the online post by the professor, who heads the political science department in the Sonipat-based Ashoka University, questioned his choice of words, saying they were used deliberately to humiliate, insult, or put others in discomfort. "The choice of words are deliberately made to insult, humiliate or cause discomfort to others. The professor, who is a learned person cannot lack a dictionary... he could have conveyed the very same feelings in a simple language without hurting others. He should have shown respect for the sentiments of others. He could have used a simple and neutral kind of language, respecting others," Justice Kant said.

Caste census: Has BJP turned tables on Opposition?

Caste census: Has BJP turned tables on Opposition?

Rediff.com30 Apr 2025

The BJP's surprise announcement of a caste census in the next census has sparked political debate, particularly in Bihar where the issue of backward empowerment holds significant electoral weight. The move is seen as a strategic maneuver by the ruling party to counter opposition efforts to mobilize support among disadvantaged sections of society. The decision is also viewed as a recognition of the growing influence of OBC politics in India.

Nothing much we can do: Govt to SC on Indian nurse's execution in Yemen

Nothing much we can do: Govt to SC on Indian nurse's execution in Yemen

Rediff.com14 Jul 2025

The Indian government is making every possible effort to save an Indian nurse facing execution in Yemen for murder, the Centre told the Supreme Court.

'Second Coming' For TN's Autonomy Panel, But...

'Second Coming' For TN's Autonomy Panel, But...

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

Given the possibilities that next year's assembly elections could throw up, Stalin told the state assembly that an interim report had to be submitted by January 2026. The outcomes may well find its way into the DMK's poll manifesto, thus seeking to keep the electoral focus still on the BJP-ruled Centre and Prime Minister Modi, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

Our identity is...: TVK leader Vijay slams DMK in maiden speech; flays NEET

Our identity is...: TVK leader Vijay slams DMK in maiden speech; flays NEET

Rediff.com27 Oct 2024

In his maiden public speech eight months after announcing the launch of TVK, Vijay said the late veterans MG Ramachandran and NT Ramarao were ridiculed as mere cinema actors when they made their political plunge "but they continue to remain in the hearts of the people" of the respective states, i.e Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

In call with Modi, Putin confirms India visit for summit

In call with Modi, Putin confirms India visit for summit

Rediff.com5 May 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit India for the annual high-level meeting as the two leaders held a telephone conversation, the Kremlin said on Monday.

Protesting Cong MLAs to spend another night in Rajasthan assembly

Protesting Cong MLAs to spend another night in Rajasthan assembly

Rediff.com22 Feb 2025

Congress legislators continued their sit-in protest inside the assembly while the party held protests at all district headquarters on Saturday against the suspension of six party MLAs.

Prez Murmu visits Odisha harassment victim at AIIMS; principal held

Prez Murmu visits Odisha harassment victim at AIIMS; principal held

Rediff.com15 Jul 2025

The principal of a college in Odisha was arrested after a student set herself ablaze following alleged sexual harassment. The incident has sparked protests and political tensions in the state.

Honeymoon murder: Victim's kin seek narco test on Sonam, family

Honeymoon murder: Victim's kin seek narco test on Sonam, family

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

Talking to reporters during Raghuvanshi's 13th-day death ritual in Indore, his elder brother, Vipin Raghuvanshi, said, "We want a narco-analysis test on Sonam, her parents, brother Govind and sister-in-law."

SEE! Who Said What In LS Debate On Operation Sindoor

SEE! Who Said What In LS Debate On Operation Sindoor

Rediff.com29 Jul 2025

Here's a quick look at who spoke in the Lok Sabha on the first day of the Operation Sindoor debate.

3-judge HC bench to hear pleas against Maratha quota

3-judge HC bench to hear pleas against Maratha quota

Rediff.com16 May 2025

The Bombay high court on Friday constituted a three-judge special bench to hear the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the law providing Maratha reservation following a Supreme Court directive.

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.

Modi had intel 3 days before Pahalgam attack, but...: Kharge

Modi had intel 3 days before Pahalgam attack, but...: Kharge

Rediff.com6 May 2025

Kharge claimed that the Centre accepted "intelligence failure" in an all-party meeting and said it should be held accountable for "not reinforcing" security arrangements in Kashmir to protect people.

Chemistry prof convicted of electrocuting husband challenges autopsy

Chemistry prof convicted of electrocuting husband challenges autopsy

Rediff.com4 Jun 2025

A former chemistry professor sentenced to life imprisonment for killing her husband by electrocution has challenged the autopsy report in the Madhya Pradesh high court, arguing the case based on her own knowledge of the subject.

Saudi minister on surprise India visit to play peacemaker

Saudi minister on surprise India visit to play peacemaker

Rediff.com8 May 2025

Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Aljubeir visited India on Thursday and held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, focusing on de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The visit comes as ties between India and Pakistan have further deteriorated following Indian military strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also arrived in New Delhi on a scheduled visit amidst the escalating tensions.

Poor, women, youth, farmers are 'castes' for our govt: FM

Poor, women, youth, farmers are 'castes' for our govt: FM

Rediff.com1 Feb 2024

Presenting the interim budget for 2024-25, she said the government is working with an approach to ensure development that is all-round, all-pervasive and all-inclusive.

Professor Mahmudabad sent to judicial custody

Professor Mahmudabad sent to judicial custody

Rediff.com21 May 2025

A court in Sonipat on Tuesday remanded in judicial custody till May 27 Ali Khan Mahmudabad, the head of Ashoka University's political science department who was arrested for his social media posts related to Operation Sindoor, his lawyer said.

SC constitutes task force to address student suicides

SC constitutes task force to address student suicides

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has formed a National Task Force (NTF) to address the growing concern of student suicides in higher educational institutions. The court took note of the recurring cases and directed Delhi Police to register FIRs on the complaints of families of two students who died by suicide at IIT Delhi in 2023. The NTF, chaired by former apex court judge Justice S Ravindra Bhat, will prepare a comprehensive report, including the identification of causes leading to suicides, analysis of existing regulations, and recommendations for strengthening protections. The NTF will also have the authority to conduct surprise inspections of higher educational institutions and make further recommendations to ensure a holistic approach to addressing mental health concerns and eliminating suicides.

Modi reaffirms 'unwavering' support to Lankan Tamils

Modi reaffirms 'unwavering' support to Lankan Tamils

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed India's expectation to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake that Colombo will fulfill the aspirations of the Tamil community in the island nation and conduct provincial council elections. The issue was discussed during wide-ranging talks between Modi and Dissanayake. Modi also met with Tamil leaders from Northern and Eastern Sri Lanka, reaffirming India's commitment to supporting the community's well-being. The Tamil community has been advocating for the implementation of the 13th Amendment, which provides for devolution of power. Modi expressed hope that Sri Lanka will fully implement its constitution and conduct provincial council elections.

Bengal guv threatens to socially boycott Mamata over RG Kar impasse

Bengal guv threatens to socially boycott Mamata over RG Kar impasse

Rediff.com13 Sep 2024

In a video message, Bose also said he will also socially boycott the chief minister.

'Religion Does Not Fail People. People Fail Religion'

'Religion Does Not Fail People. People Fail Religion'

Rediff.com24 Apr 2025

'What makes this tragedy even more painful is the attempt by some to weaponise it, to paint an entire community with the brush of guilt. This is not just irresponsible. It is dangerous.'

Preventive detention must be used sparingly: SC

Preventive detention must be used sparingly: SC

Rediff.com7 Jun 2025

Preventive detention is an extraordinary power in the hands of the state that must be used sparingly, said the Supreme Court as it set aside an order to detain a man indulging in money lending in Kerala.

'Dead' man wakes up on pyre, dies again; doctors suspended

'Dead' man wakes up on pyre, dies again; doctors suspended

Rediff.com22 Nov 2024

A man declared dead by doctors woke up just as he was placed on the pyre much to the shock of those around but breathed his last a few hours later, the dramatic life and death story unfolding in Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu area over Thursday and Friday.

'Rahul Gandhi Is Stabilising India With Caste Census Demand'

'Rahul Gandhi Is Stabilising India With Caste Census Demand'

Rediff.com27 Aug 2024

'Rahul Gandhi is raising the issue of a caste census though his party has been doing injustice on this front from the 1950s.'

Liking obscene post not an offence under IT Act: Court

Liking obscene post not an offence under IT Act: Court

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that simply liking a social media post does not constitute publishing obscene material under Section 67 of the Information Technology Act. The court quashed criminal proceedings against a man who was accused of liking a post that led to a gathering of people. The court found that the man had merely liked a message and no offensive content was found on his social media accounts.

SC extends bail to Ashoka university professor, bars posts on FIR

SC extends bail to Ashoka university professor, bars posts on FIR

Rediff.com29 May 2025

The Supreme Court of India has extended the interim bail of Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, who was arrested for contentious social media posts on Operation Sindoor. The court, however, restrained him from posting anything online with respect to the cases against him, stating that there was no impediment on his right to speech and expression. The court directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to furnish the investigation report on the next date of hearing.

As it is we are being accused of...: SC judge responds to attacks

As it is we are being accused of...: SC judge responds to attacks

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

Justice Gavai's comment came while the apex court bench, also comprising Justice Augustine George Masih, was considering a fresh plea seeking an inquiry into the recent violence in West Bengal during anti-Waqf law protests.

Govt announces 9 priorities in Budget

Govt announces 9 priorities in Budget

Rediff.com23 Jul 2024

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday announced nine priorities in the Union Budget 2024-25 for generating ample opportunities in the economy. The nine priorities include productivity, jobs, social justice, urban development, energy security, infrastructure, innovation and reforms.

UP journalist, wife consume poison on camera over 'harassment'

UP journalist, wife consume poison on camera over 'harassment'

Rediff.com30 May 2025

In the purported video, Israr claimed that he had recently published a news report on an alleged corruption in the Barkheda nagar panchayat, which he claimed caught the attention of the Chief Minister's Office.

When country faces difficult time...: SC pulls up Rohingya petitioners

When country faces difficult time...: SC pulls up Rohingya petitioners

Rediff.com16 May 2025

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh also questioned the authenticity of materials placed before it by petitioner Mohd Ismail and others and refused to stay any further deportation of Rohingyas saying similar relief was denied by the court.

Arrested on CM's order: RCB official tells HC

Arrested on CM's order: RCB official tells HC

Rediff.com9 Jun 2025

The Karnataka high court on Monday did not grant interim relief to Nikhil Sosale, head of marketing, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who was arrested on June 6 in connection with the fatal stampede near M Chinnaswamy Stadium, and adjourned the matter for hearing on Tuesday.

HC grants bail to student held over Op Sindoor post; slams govt, college

HC grants bail to student held over Op Sindoor post; slams govt, college

Rediff.com27 May 2025

The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra government for arresting a 19-year-old student from Pune for her social media post on Indo-Pak hostilities, calling its reaction "radical." The court granted the student bail and said the state's actions were unwarranted and had turned a student into a criminal. The court also questioned the conduct of the college for rusticating the student, stating that an educational institution's approach should be to reform, not punish. The student had reposted a post on Instagram that criticized the Indian government for provoking a war against Pakistan, but she later deleted the post and apologized for her actions. The college, however, deemed the post to be anti-national and expelled the student. The court emphasized that mistakes are bound to happen, especially at a young age, and urged the college to focus on reforming students rather than punishing them.

Cash row: HC probe report, SC video cast doubt on Delhi fire chief's claim

Cash row: HC probe report, SC video cast doubt on Delhi fire chief's claim

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

A video and inquiry report have raised questions about the Delhi Fire Services' claim that no cash was found at the official residence of Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma during a fire incident on March 14. The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows fire fighters dousing flames on articles that appear to include half-burnt Indian currency notes. The Delhi High Court Chief Justice has initiated an in-house inquiry against Justice Varma and the Supreme Court has proposed his transfer to the Allahabad High Court.

Sec 377 gone but queer people still face oppression, says Justice Chandrachud

Sec 377 gone but queer people still face oppression, says Justice Chandrachud

Rediff.com7 Sep 2022

Supreme Court judge Justice DY Chandrachud has said that the decriminalisation of Section 377 of IPC by the apex court has enabled queer people to emerge as legally empowered citizens.

SC directs Centre to safeguard domestic workers' rights

SC directs Centre to safeguard domestic workers' rights

Rediff.com29 Jan 2025

The Supreme Court of India directed the government to establish a legal framework to protect domestic workers and address their exploitation.

Engineer ends life in UP, blames wife, in-laws for harassment in video

Engineer ends life in UP, blames wife, in-laws for harassment in video

Rediff.com20 Apr 2025

A 33-year-old engineer, Mohit Yadav, died by suicide in a hotel room near Etawah railway station, leaving behind a video message accusing his wife and in-laws of mentally harassing him over property issues. The incident comes just months after a similar case involving techie Atul Subhash in Bengaluru, who also ended his life alleging harassment by his estranged wife and her family. Yadav's family alleged that his in-laws pressured him to transfer his property to his wife's name and threatened him when he refused. Police are investigating the case.