News for 'special status'

J-K assembly passes statehood resolution as BJP protests

J-K assembly passes statehood resolution as BJP protests

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution demanding the urgent restoration of full statehood, a move that saw the opposition BJP stage a walkout. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah moved the resolution, which also referenced previous calls for greater autonomy and special status. The BJP vehemently opposed the resolution, calling it an insult to the Constitution.

PoK people would've joined India before 2019: Omar on Independence Day

PoK people would've joined India before 2019: Omar on Independence Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has renewed his call for the restoration of special status and statehood to the region, asserting that the decision to accede to India 80 years ago was correct. He highlighted the importance of upholding India's federal structure and suggested that if Article 370 hadn't been revoked, PoK residents might be seeking reunification. Abdullah also criticised centralised governance models, arguing they erode state autonomy.

Nitish cabinet passes resolution seeking special status for Bihar

Nitish cabinet passes resolution seeking special status for Bihar

Rediff.com22 Nov 2023

Kumar said that while the rise in percentage of population of the deprived castes has led to increase in the quotas for SCs, STs and OBCs from 50 to 65 per cent, his government also planned to undertake a number of welfare measures for the benefit of "94 lakh families", which according to the survey lived in abject poverty.

BJP MLAs hold mock proceedings, tear papers in J-K Assembly over statehood

BJP MLAs hold mock proceedings, tear papers in J-K Assembly over statehood

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly witnessed chaotic scenes as BJP members protested a resolution seeking the urgent restoration of statehood. The BJP opposed the resolution, calling it an insult to the Constitution, and moved a motion for the Speaker's removal, leading to disruptions and mock proceedings in the House.

SC to set up special bench on OBC creamy-layer criteria

SC to set up special bench on OBC creamy-layer criteria

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to constitute a special bench to address the Centre's plea regarding the applicability of its March 11 judgment on OBC creamy-layer criteria to candidates of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) seeks to proceed with service allocation for 958 recommended candidates based on the creamy-layer determination applied before the verdict, citing potential unequal treatment and disruption to training schedules.

Dhire dhire...: Nitish's cryptic reply to denial of special status for Bihar

Dhire dhire...: Nitish's cryptic reply to denial of special status for Bihar

Rediff.com23 Jul 2024

Leaders of the JD-U, which has two ministers in the Union government, insist that the resolution also spoke of "special package and other types of help" and that Bihar could still get a lot from Narendra Modi government.

Mikel Arteta signs new long-term Arsenal contract until 2030

Mikel Arteta signs new long-term Arsenal contract until 2030

Rediff.com14 hours ago

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has signed a new contract until June 2030, extending his tenure after guiding the club to their first Premier League title in 22 years and restoring their status as a top European team.

SC seeks SIT status report on Ayodhya donation 'theft'

SC seeks SIT status report on Ayodhya donation 'theft'

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team (SIT) to submit a status report on the alleged embezzlement of donation money at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also issued notice to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust following pleas for a fair and time-bound probe, including demands for a CBI investigation and a CAG audit of the temple trust's finances.

Uttarakhand voter count falls by over 8 lakh after SIR

Uttarakhand voter count falls by over 8 lakh after SIR

Rediff.com3 days ago

Uttarakhand's final electoral roll, released after the Special Intensive Revision, shows a significant reduction of approximately 8 lakh voters compared to the start of the process, with the total now standing at 71.58 lakh. The opposition Congress, however, claims the decline is much steeper, citing a 14 lakh reduction from an earlier figure. The Chief Electoral Officer's office detailed the revision process, including additions and removals, and outlined ongoing efforts to ensure all eligible citizens are included.

SC proposes special courts, speedy trial for Manipur ethnic violence cases

SC proposes special courts, speedy trial for Manipur ethnic violence cases

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has proposed establishing special courts for day-to-day trials in criminal cases stemming from the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence. The court also directed probe agencies to expedite investigations, ensure victims receive chargesheet copies, and asked for status reports on missing persons and ongoing cases.

SC orders Delhi police audit, mapping of crime-prone areas

SC orders Delhi police audit, mapping of crime-prone areas

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has issued comprehensive directives to the Delhi Police Commissioner to enhance safety for women and minor girls in Delhi-NCR. These measures include forming dedicated police teams, conducting vulnerability audits of public spaces, improving lighting and CCTV surveillance, and strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms. The court also sought reports on the functioning of fast-track courts, utilisation of sexual offender databases, and the Mission Shakti programme.

US moves to strip citizenship of 40, including Indian-origin man

US moves to strip citizenship of 40, including Indian-origin man

Rediff.com1 days ago

The US Department of Justice has initiated its largest denaturalisation effort in modern history, targeting 40 individuals for various serious offences, including fraud and espionage. Among those facing citizenship revocation is Balwinder Singh of California, accused of using a fraudulent identity, and Jinchao Wei, a former US Navy sailor convicted of espionage for China.

Fist fights in J-K Assembly as CM moves statehood resolution

Fist fights in J-K Assembly as CM moves statehood resolution

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah introduced a resolution in the assembly demanding the urgent restoration of full statehood for the union territory. The resolution, which referenced previous autonomy resolutions, led to intense protests and "ugly scenes" from opposition BJP members, resulting in the adjournment of the House. Abdullah highlighted the unfulfilled promise by the Government of India regarding statehood after delimitation and elections.

Taiwan Boxer wins Asiad gold after gender eligibility row

Taiwan Boxer wins Asiad gold after gender eligibility row

Rediff.com5 days ago

Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting has won a gold medal in the women's 60kg boxing category at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, two years after facing a gender-eligibility dispute at the Paris Olympics. Lin was cleared to compete earlier this year and defeated China's Yang Chengyu. The article also highlights India's Lovlina Borgohain winning gold in the 75kg category.

Is Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Girish AD's Best Film?

Is Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Girish AD's Best Film?

Rediff.com1 days ago

As Bethlehem Kudumba Unit reaches JioHotstar and Premalu remake reaches theatres, we rank Girish A D's films from good to awesome.

Ram Temple theft: SC expands SIT; seeks status report in two weeks

Ram Temple theft: SC expands SIT; seeks status report in two weeks

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday took note of setting up of a four-member SIT headed by IGP Kiran S to probe alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and asked the Uttar Pradesh government to also include a forensic auditor in the probe team.

Manipur Sexual Violence: SC Orders CBI To Ensure Witness Appearance

Manipur Sexual Violence: SC Orders CBI To Ensure Witness Appearance

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Supreme Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the trial court to ensure the appearance and examination of two crucial victim-witnesses in a Manipur sexual violence case. This order comes amidst the CBI's plea to cancel the bail of two accused, citing concerns over witness intimidation. The court emphasized the authorities' obligation to provide witness protection and set specific dates for the witnesses to depose, as part of its ongoing monitoring of cases related to the 2023 ethnic violence in Manipur.

'Shocked' SC seeks report on deaths in Manipur camp

'Shocked' SC seeks report on deaths in Manipur camp

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed shock over numerous deaths, including unnatural ones, in relief camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Manipur. It directed the state's chief secretary to explain steps taken for investigation, criminal proceedings, and ensuring safety, questioning low compensation and incomplete post-mortems. The court also sought a report from MSLSA and urged expeditious trials in violence-related cases.

SIT finds currency was removed 105 times from Ram temple counting room

SIT finds currency was removed 105 times from Ram temple counting room

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has noted that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged embezzlement at the Ram temple in Ayodhya identified 105 instances of unauthorised currency removal from the counting room. While no discrepancies were found in valuable articles like silver bricks, eight accused have been identified, and a chargesheet is expected soon. The investigation involved examining CCTV footage, financial records, and witness statements.

Administrative Error Alleged In Bail For Tribal Land Accused

Administrative Error Alleged In Bail For Tribal Land Accused

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Surguja district administration has challenged a subordinate court's order granting bail to an accused in a case involving the alleged illegal transfer of tribal land. Collector Ajeet Vasant wrote to the Principal District and Sessions Judge, Ambikapur, alleging that the bail was granted without hearing the prosecution and that the case falls under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, requiring a Special Court. The accused, Azad Iraqi, is implicated in fabricating documents to mutate tribal land into his name.

Supreme Court declines to interfere with Delhi HC order in NSE co-location case

Supreme Court declines to interfere with Delhi HC order in NSE co-location case

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has refused to quash proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act against former NSE MD and CEO Chitra Ramkrishna, stating that the trial court will determine whether she can be considered a 'public servant' under the Act.

Muchova, Noskova steer Czech Republic past Ukraine for 12th Billie Jean King Cup title

Muchova, Noskova steer Czech Republic past Ukraine for 12th Billie Jean King Cup title

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Czech Republic secured their 12th Billie Jean King Cup title by defeating Ukraine 2-0 in the final. Karolina Muchova and Linda Noskova delivered dominant singles victories, with Muchova sweeping Anhelina Kalinina and Noskova overcoming Elina Svitolina. This victory marks the Czechs' first title since 2018, solidifying their position as the second-most successful nation in the competition's history.

Work With The US, With Or Without Trump

Work With The US, With Or Without Trump

Rediff.com1 days ago

India-US ties may be strained, but abandoning the relationship is not the answer; India must deal with Washington firmly without becoming either servile or hostile, asserts Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

'Tatas May Challenge RBI's Decision'

'Tatas May Challenge RBI's Decision'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

'...but should prepare for listing unless a court grants effective interim relief.'

Mojtaba Khamenei 'pulled from rubble' after US strikes: Report

Mojtaba Khamenei 'pulled from rubble' after US strikes: Report

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Reports from the New York Post, citing Mohsen Heydari, reveal that Mojtaba Khamenei was "pulled from the rubble" of a Tehran hospital after alleged US and Israeli strikes. This occurred before his secret selection as Iran's new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, which was also reportedly targeted. Conflicting accounts from Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have further shrouded Khamenei's health in mystery, with some suggesting severe injuries while others claim he is "completely" healthy.

Pincky Balhara's Asian Games Bronze: A Triumph Amidst Injury And Adversity

Pincky Balhara's Asian Games Bronze: A Triumph Amidst Injury And Adversity

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Indian kurash athlete Pincky Balhara secured a bronze medal at the Asian Games, becoming the most successful Indian in the sport at the event. Her achievement came despite suffering a knee injury during the quarterfinal, which was further targeted by her semifinal opponent. Balhara, who trains with boys at her uncle's academy due to the lack of a national federation, expressed disappointment over the injury preventing a higher finish.

How Neeru Dhanda Overcame Adversity For Asian Games Gold

How Neeru Dhanda Overcame Adversity For Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indian shooter Neeru Dhanda secured back-to-back gold medals at the Asian Games, triumphing in the women's trap and mixed team events despite battling fatigue, illness, and challenging weather conditions. Her remarkable resilience and focus, coupled with a women's team silver, made her a standout performer for India.

Granite Baron POCSO Case: Ex-Employee Held For Video, Financial Probe Widens

Granite Baron POCSO Case: Ex-Employee Held For Video, Financial Probe Widens

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Central Crime Branch has arrested Ganesan, a former employee of Gem Granites, for possessing video evidence in the POCSO case against industrialist R Veeramani. The arrest comes as police intensify their probe into multi-crore financial transactions allegedly linked to the case, involving influential individuals and attempts to suppress the investigation.

Why Vinod Khanna Returned To India

Why Vinod Khanna Returned To India

Rediff.com19 hours ago

'My comeback to films has nothing to do with the fact that I wanted money. I came back because of my kids, Rahul and Akshaye.'

'EC has created a Frankenstein's monster through SIR'

'EC has created a Frankenstein's monster through SIR'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Former Chief Election Commissioners have voiced strong objections to reported 'illegal' changes in voter registration Form 6 and the centralisation of electoral roll control, raising serious concerns about the integrity of future elections.

US to end 60-day grace period for H-1B holders losing jobs

US to end 60-day grace period for H-1B holders losing jobs

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a new rule to eliminate the 60-day grace period for H-1B visa holders and other nonimmigrants after job loss, a move expected to significantly impact Indian technology workers.

Court quashes order denying probe into Sonia Gandhi's voter list entry

Court quashes order denying probe into Sonia Gandhi's voter list entry

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

A Delhi court has revived a legal challenge concerning Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's electoral roll inclusion, quashing a magistrate's previous order and mandating a fresh, reasoned hearing on allegations of pre-citizenship voter registration.

No SIR notice issued to Bharat Ratna Prof CNR Rao, clarifies GBA

No SIR notice issued to Bharat Ratna Prof CNR Rao, clarifies GBA

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) clarified that no notice was issued to Bharat Ratna awardee Prof C N R Rao regarding an electoral roll discrepancy. Instead, the Booth Level Officer recommended including his name despite a variation in how it was recorded over the years, ensuring his inclusion in the final electoral roll.

Satwik-Chirag Confident For Asian Games Despite Workload Concerns

Satwik-Chirag Confident For Asian Games Despite Workload Concerns

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Satwik-Chirag face a 10-day Asian Games grind as the defending champions focus on fitness, injury prevention and workload management.

Nearly one-third of voters from Delhi's draft electoral list in SIR

Nearly one-third of voters from Delhi's draft electoral list in SIR

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Delhi's draft electoral roll has been published, showing 47.7 lakh voters excluded. Those omitted can file claims until September 30, with the final roll due on November 4. The exclusion follows a Special Intensive Revision exercise where many electors were categorised as "uncollectable."

Has BRICS Summit Opened New India-China Chapter?

Has BRICS Summit Opened New India-China Chapter?

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Xi's bilateral meeting with Modi was substantial and readouts from both sides gave indications of rapprochement, if not a reset of bilateral relations between India and China, notes Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

Nitish misleading people on Bihar special status: Cong

Nitish misleading people on Bihar special status: Cong

Rediff.com29 Dec 2013

A day after Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar slammed the United Progressive Alliance government for shelving the special status demand at the behest of its 'natural' ally, the Congress hit back charging him with misleading the people on the issue and instigating them against it.

Tom Cruise's 10 Best Movies

Tom Cruise's 10 Best Movies

Rediff.com7 days ago

Looking at the best Tom Cruise films outside the Mission: Impossible franchise that proves just how versatile the superstar can be.

Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi among nine charged in IRCTC hotel scam

Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi among nine charged in IRCTC hotel scam

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

A Delhi court has ordered the framing of money laundering charges against former railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, son Tejashwi Yadav, and six others in the alleged IRCTC hotel scam. The court found strong suspicion of a manipulated tender for railway hotels and a quid pro quo involving land transfer at undervalued rates.

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expeditiously complete its probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also mandated the SIT to submit a sealed status report and consider suggestions from litigants for improving transparency and investigation quality.