News for 'social media controversy'

Maharashtra Cyber Police Book Comedians Over 'Obscene' Online Content

Maharashtra Cyber Police Book Comedians Over 'Obscene' Online Content

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Maharashtra Cyber police have registered a case against stand-up comedian Pranit More, web developer Himanshu Jangra, and Dr Sejal Pawar for allegedly disseminating 'obscene and objectionable' content on social media, stemming from remarks made during a comedy show that trivialised consent and disrespected deceased persons.

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Congress spokesperson, quoted in media reports, summed up the party's thinking by saying, 'Whenever BJP is in trouble on the ground, a new 'apolitical' or 'alternative' party appears with the same ideology and the same backers.'

Rs 370 biryani remark row: NCW rejects comic Pranit More's apology

Rs 370 biryani remark row: NCW rejects comic Pranit More's apology

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The National Commission for Women (NCW) rejected apologies from stand-up comedians Pranit More, Madhur Virli, and audience member Himanshu Jangra regarding alleged objectionable and misogynistic content against women. The commission emphasised that freedom of speech does not justify normalising the violation of women's bodily autonomy or trivialising heinous crimes. The controversy stemmed from a viral video where Jangra's 'Rs 370 biryani' remark, implying expected intimacy for a date, drew widespread backlash.

'Blue jersey is to India as yellow jersey is to Brazil'

'Blue jersey is to India as yellow jersey is to Brazil'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed strong "anguish" over the Indian hockey team's decision to change its traditional blue jersey to saffron for the upcoming FIH World Cup. Patnaik, whose state government previously sponsored the team, criticised the move as "petty politics" and an attempt to erase sporting legacy, alleging pressure from the BJP government in Odisha. Hockey India stated the saffron colour symbolises courage, sacrifice, and new beginnings, inspired by the national flag.

HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle; account back online in India

HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle; account back online in India

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Delhi high court ordered the restoration of the Cockroach Janta Party's X handle on Tuesday after the Centre informed it that the account was withheld to prevent "chaos" ahead of the NEET re-test and that there would be no difficulty revoking it now.

CJP team attacked in Rajasthan during 'School Thik Karo' campaign

CJP team attacked in Rajasthan during 'School Thik Karo' campaign

Rediff.com5 days ago

A Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) team, inspecting a government school in Rampura Kanwarpura village, Rajasthan, as part of its 'School Thik Karo' campaign, was allegedly attacked by villagers and BJP workers. CJP co-convener Ashutosh Ranka claimed their workers were assaulted, vehicles damaged, and women supporters roughed up, accusing the state police of inaction.

Know More About Mohanlal's Daughter Vismaya Before Her Thudakkam Debut

Know More About Mohanlal's Daughter Vismaya Before Her Thudakkam Debut

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

As Vismaya Mohanlal makes her acting debut with Thudakkam, here's what you need to know about Mohanlal's daughter, from her Muay Thai training to her life away from the spotlight.

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah addressed parliament on the ongoing border dispute with India, stating both countries have agreed to seek resolution through diplomatic means and expert consultation. Shah's remarks about Nepal also encroaching on Indian territories have sparked controversy.

Youth held for sexual assault wants pizza, soft bed in Nagpur jail

Youth held for sexual assault wants pizza, soft bed in Nagpur jail

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

A 19-year-old youth arrested in Nagpur for allegedly holding a minor girl captive and sexually assaulting her has made unusual demands in police custody, including pizza and soft bedding. The accused, Nirmay Madhav Pakhare, also refused to cooperate with the investigation into the alleged blackmail and assault of the 16-year-old victim, who was rescued with multiple injuries.

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

A controversy has erupted within Hockey India over the national teams' new saffron jerseys, replacing the traditional blue.

Compensation politics: RG Kar doc's mother rejects TMC MLA's comparison

Compensation politics: RG Kar doc's mother rejects TMC MLA's comparison

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The mother of the RG Kar hospital rape-murder victim on Monday rejected Trinamool Congres MLA Kunal Ghosh's comparison between the Rs 10 lakh given to the family of a party worker who died in police custody in Halisahar, and the same amount of compensation announced after her daughter's death.

Noida airport waterlogging sparks row as BJP, SP clash over infra

Noida airport waterlogging sparks row as BJP, SP clash over infra

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Waterlogging at the newly-built Noida International Airport in Jewar after heavy rains has ignited a political dispute between the Samajwadi Party and the BJP government. While SP chief Akhilesh Yadav criticised the infrastructure, airport authorities stated the temporary water accumulation was cleared within 30 minutes without disrupting operations. BJP MLA Dhirendra Singh defended the development, accusing the opposition of politicising the issue.

TN YouTuber detained for criticising CM Joseph Vijay

TN YouTuber detained for criticising CM Joseph Vijay

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Well-known YouTuber Maridhas was detained by a special team of the Chennai City Police for allegedly posting critical videos targeting the TVK government, Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, and several state ministers. He was apprehended in Madurai and is being brought to Chennai for further interrogation.

Why Is Odisha BJD Questioning Dharmendra Pradhan's Family Trust?

Why Is Odisha BJD Questioning Dharmendra Pradhan's Family Trust?

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Odisha's opposition BJD has requested Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to clarify his family's connection with the Vikas Foundation Trust, which is alleged to have purchased properties in the US. BJP leaders have dismissed the allegations as a smear campaign.

Defence ministry refutes 'concealment' charge over Op Sindoor martyrs

Defence ministry refutes 'concealment' charge over Op Sindoor martyrs

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Amid a row surrounding the six martyrs of Operation Sindoor, the defence ministry on Saturday said the nation paid homage to them at the "earliest opportunity", and their memory shall always be honoured with the dignity and reverence, it deserves.

Actor Vikram's deleted video reveals illegal trade in exotic Lar Gibbon apes

Actor Vikram's deleted video reveals illegal trade in exotic Lar Gibbon apes

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A deleted video posted by actor Vikram, showing him cuddling a Lar Gibbon, has brought to light the illegal possession and transfer of these endangered primates in Tamil Nadu, prompting a forest department investigation.

Rs 370 biryani row: Comedian Pranit More says he 'deserves' hate

Rs 370 biryani row: Comedian Pranit More says he 'deserves' hate

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Stand-up comedian Pranit More has issued a second apology for his "lapse in judgment" regarding a controversial "Rs 370 biryani" remark made by a participant during his show, which allegedly glorified non-consensual conduct. More is facing a police case and expressed regret for giving a platform to the derogatory comments. The controversy also involves another participant, Sejal Pawar, for separate objectionable remarks.

PCB unhappy with Babar, Shaheen; to revisit players' social media policy

PCB unhappy with Babar, Shaheen; to revisit players' social media policy

Rediff.com10 Feb 2024

The Pakistan Cricket Board is not happy with former skipper Babar Azam and the current national T20 skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi participating on a space with fans conducted on social media platform 'X'.

PV Sindhu Knocked Out Of China Open, Criticises Tournament Scheduling

PV Sindhu Knocked Out Of China Open, Criticises Tournament Scheduling

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu was defeated by local favourite Chen Yufei in the second round of the China Open. Sindhu, who recently won the Japan Open, lost a close three-game match. Following her exit, she publicly criticised the tournament's scheduling, highlighting the inadequate recovery time she received compared to her opponent. Other Indian shuttlers Ayush Shetty and Lakshya Sen also exited the men's singles.

Did Michael Show The Whole Truth?

Did Michael Show The Whole Truth?

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The Michael Jackson biopic Michael has achieved remarkable box office success, grossing over $700 million worldwide, yet it sparks debate over the power of fandom versus the need for a truthful depiction of an artist's controversial life.

Cockroach Janta Party goes viral, founder's parents anxious

Cockroach Janta Party goes viral, founder's parents anxious

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The viral rise of the Cockroach Janta Party reflects growing frustration among Indian youth over unemployment, politics, and economic challenges, sparking nationwide debate online.

Viral Video Incident: Man Retracts Police Assault Claim, Cites Misunderstanding

Viral Video Incident: Man Retracts Police Assault Claim, Cites Misunderstanding

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A man in Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district has retracted his accusation of assault against a police officer during a late-night vehicle check, stating it was a "misunderstanding." The incident, which involved a viral video, saw the man, S Kishor, initially alleging misbehaviour, but he has now clarified that police did not demand a bribe and he should have been more cooperative.

Nepal Airlines apologises for showing J-K as part of Pakistan

Nepal Airlines apologises for showing J-K as part of Pakistan

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Nepal Airlines has apologised for a map shared on social media that incorrectly depicted Jammu and Kashmir as part of Pakistan, leading to a swift backlash and the removal of the post.

'India is great': US in damage-control mode after Trump's 'hellholes' repost

'India is great': US in damage-control mode after Trump's 'hellholes' repost

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The US embassy spokesperson issued a statement clarifying President Trump's views on India after a controversial social media repost. The statement emphasised the strong relationship between the two countries and Trump's positive view of India's leadership.

Controversy Swirls Around Mla's Threat To Officer

Controversy Swirls Around Mla's Threat To Officer

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

A controversy surrounding BJP MLA Pritam Lodhi has intensified after a video surfaced in which he threatened a police officer. The threat follows accusations against Lodhi's son, who is accused of injuring five people with his SUV.

Why Ranjit Bajaj Rejected India Manager Role For FIFA U-15 World Cup

Why Ranjit Bajaj Rejected India Manager Role For FIFA U-15 World Cup

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Ranjit Bajaj has declined the manager role for the India U-15 men's national team for the upcoming FIFA U-15 World Cup, citing fundamental differences in footballing philosophy with head coach Bibiano Fernandes.

Maharashtra Minister Embroiled in Controversy After Video Surfaces

Maharashtra Minister Embroiled in Controversy After Video Surfaces

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Maharashtra minister Narhari Zirwal is facing calls for his dismissal after a video showing him with a transperson went viral. The minister claims the video is doctored and a blackmail attempt, while opposition parties demand his sacking for 'obscene and unethical behaviour'.

Union Minister Bittu Apologises For Casteist Remarks

Union Minister Bittu Apologises For Casteist Remarks

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu has apologised to the Scheduled Caste community for his recent objectionable remarks, stating that as a minister, he should not have used such language.

Converted voluntarily, won't return to Hinduism: Ayush alias Mohammad Ali

Converted voluntarily, won't return to Hinduism: Ayush alias Mohammad Ali

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A religious conversion case in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, has led to a police investigation and the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). A man, Ayush Malik alias Mohammad Ali, claims he voluntarily converted to Islam, while his father alleges illegal conversion and forgery. Authorities have heightened security in the area as the probe continues and arrests have been made.

'Where is the consistency?': Ex-referee slams FIFA World Cup ban row

'Where is the consistency?': Ex-referee slams FIFA World Cup ban row

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

FIFA is facing renewed scrutiny over its inconsistent handling of two World Cup red-card cases involving England's Jarell Quansah and the USA's Folarin Balogun. While Quansah received a two-match ban, Balogun's one-match suspension was controversially suspended, leading to accusations of external interference and a lack of transparency from the governing body.

West Bengal: Content Creators Arrested For Offensive Video Against CM

West Bengal: Content Creators Arrested For Offensive Video Against CM

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Two online content creators have been arrested in West Bengal for allegedly posting an offensive video targeting Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

Cockroach Party appoints journalist, filmmaker as spokespersons

Cockroach Party appoints journalist, filmmaker as spokespersons

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

CJP, launched last month, has rapidly gained social media traction among students and young people focusing on youth and education issues

Controversy Erupts Over Reinstalled Statues of Kakori Martyrs in UP

Controversy Erupts Over Reinstalled Statues of Kakori Martyrs in UP

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

A controversy has erupted in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, regarding the reinstallation of statues of Kakori Action martyrs. Questions are being raised about whether the statues are new or repaired old ones after they were allegedly demolished. The incident has led to political accusations, protests, and police investigation.

Cockroach Party is the outcome of youth's frustration: BJP ally

Cockroach Party is the outcome of youth's frustration: BJP ally

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has stated that the ban on the Cockroach Janata Party's social media handles is a symptom of widespread frustration among India's youth regarding employment, competitive examinations, and economic pressures, urging the government to address these concerns through policy changes.

Police Seek to Prevent Badshah From Leaving Country Amid Controversy

Police Seek to Prevent Badshah From Leaving Country Amid Controversy

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Police in Haryana, India, have initiated a Look Out Circular against rapper Badshah following complaints about objectionable content in his Haryanvi music video, 'Tateeree'. The video faces scrutiny for allegedly promoting inappropriate depictions of women and the school environment.

IPL 2026: Arshdeep Singh Faces Ban Call For Alleged Racist Remark

IPL 2026: Arshdeep Singh Faces Ban Call For Alleged Racist Remark

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Retired spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan demands strict action against Arshdeep Singh for the Punjab Kings pacer's alleged racist remarks directed at Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma.

Decoding Vijay-Trisha's Romance

Decoding Vijay-Trisha's Romance

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Explore the fascinating journey of Tamil cinema's iconic duo, Vijay and Trisha, from their blockbuster films to persistent rumours of their link-up.

Delhi HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle, revokes govt ban

Delhi HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle, revokes govt ban

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has ordered the unblocking of the Cockroach Janta Party's X handle, which was previously withheld due to concerns over potential "chaos" during the NEET re-test. The court's decision came after the Solicitor General stated that the primary concern was no longer relevant as the NEET exam was over. The CJP, a youth-driven satirical movement, aims to hold the government accountable and has gained significant digital traction.

Zuckerberg apologises for Modi post removal, Meta admits failures

Zuckerberg apologises for Modi post removal, Meta admits failures

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg has issued an apology for the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook post, while company executives acknowledged significant content moderation failures, including issues with child sexual abuse material, deepfakes, and the paid boosting of certain content.

BCCI alarmed as IPL 'WAGS loophole' under scanner

BCCI alarmed as IPL 'WAGS loophole' under scanner

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The IPL's Anti Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has raised concerns about unauthorised individuals in team areas, prompting the BCCI to tighten security protocols for franchises during the ongoing season.