News for 'transparency'

Regulations should safeguard, not stifle: RBI Guv Sanjay Malhotra

Regulations should safeguard, not stifle: RBI Guv Sanjay Malhotra

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra on Wednesday said regulations should not create unintended barriers to financial inclusion while emphasising that the impact of regulations on individuals and businesses should be considered.

India maintains high import duty on American goods: US report

India maintains high import duty on American goods: US report

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

India maintains "high" import duties on a wide range of American goods such as agricultural items, drug formulations, and alcoholic beverages, besides imposing non-tariif barriers, a US report has said. A day before announcing reciprocal tariffs, the US Trade Representative (USTR) released the 2025 National Trade Estimate (NTE) Report on March 31.

Pune hospital ends deposit policy after pregnant woman's death

Pune hospital ends deposit policy after pregnant woman's death

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

The Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune, India, has stopped taking deposits from patients at the emergency department after a pregnant woman died after being turned away for non-payment. The hospital faced intense criticism following the incident, which involved the wife of a BJP MLC's personal secretary. The woman was shifted to another hospital where she died after delivering twins.

Waqf bill: Govt says no interference in Muslims; Oppn objects

Waqf bill: Govt says no interference in Muslims; Oppn objects

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

Introducing the bill, Rijiju said the consultation process of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) was the largest ever exercise carried out by a parliamentary panel in India's democratic history.

Jamiat too files petition in SC against Waqf (Amendment) Act

Jamiat too files petition in SC against Waqf (Amendment) Act

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

A fresh plea has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, claiming it was a "blatant intrusion" into the rights of a religious denomination to manage its own affairs in the matter of religion. The plea, filed by Samastha Kerala Jamiathul Ulema, argues that the amendments would distort the religious character of Waqfs and irreversibly damage the democratic process in their administration. Several other petitions have been filed in the apex court challenging the validity of the bill, including those by Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, and AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan.

'Before Holi, this is a gift for all associated with wrestling'

'Before Holi, this is a gift for all associated with wrestling'

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

For a few months an Indian Olympic Association ad-hoc panel ran the show but after UWW lifted its suspension following the conduct of elections, the committee was dissolved.

Allahabad HC lawyers on indefinite strike over Justice Varma's transfer

Allahabad HC lawyers on indefinite strike over Justice Varma's transfer

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

The Allahabad High Court Bar Association has begun an indefinite strike to protest the proposed transfer of Delhi HC judge Yashwant Varma, who is under investigation after a large amount of cash was found at his residence. The Oudh Bar Association (OBA) of the Lucknow bench of the High Court has also condemned the transfer, calling for impeachment proceedings against Justice Varma. Both bar associations are concerned about the impact on public faith in the judiciary and have called for a reconsideration of the transfer decision.

Notices slapped on Ola, Uber for unfair pricing

Notices slapped on Ola, Uber for unfair pricing

Rediff.com24 Jan 2025

Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Thursday that the Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued notices to cab aggregators Ola and Uber for alleged differential pricing for identical rides based on the user's mobile operating system -- Android or iOS.

CAT overturns transfer of Sameer Wankhede

CAT overturns transfer of Sameer Wankhede

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has overturned the transfer of Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Sameer Wankhede from Mumbai to Chennai, ruling that the revenue department violated its own guidelines. Wankhede, known for his role in the Cordelia cruise drug bust case involving Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan's son, had claimed his transfer was punitive and a consequence of his actions at the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). The CAT found procedural lapses and potential bias in the transfer decision, stating that transfer policies must be implemented fairly and transparently.

Parl panel on Waqf bill submits report to LS speaker

Parl panel on Waqf bill submits report to LS speaker

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

The joint committee of Parliament examining the Waqf (Amendment) Bill submitted its report to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday. The panel adopted the report by a majority vote, with changes suggested by members of the ruling BJP. Opposition members, who submitted dissent notes, called the exercise an attempt to destroy Waqf boards and termed the bill an attack on the constitutional rights of the Muslim community.

Lok Sabha to take up Waqf bill today; BJP, allies issue whip

Lok Sabha to take up Waqf bill today; BJP, allies issue whip

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

The Lok Sabha, India's lower house of Parliament, will debate the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill on Wednesday. The bill has been met with strong opposition from several parties who claim it is unconstitutional. The government, however, insists the bill aims to improve the management of Waqf properties in India by bringing transparency and efficiency.

Will SC's Constitution bench bat for transparency in electoral bonds scheme?

Will SC's Constitution bench bat for transparency in electoral bonds scheme?

Rediff.com30 Oct 2023

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court is scheduled to commence a crucial hearing from Tuesday on a batch of pleas challenging the validity of the electoral bonds scheme for funding political parties.

New Income Tax Bill: What YOU Must KNOW

New Income Tax Bill: What YOU Must KNOW

Rediff.com1 Feb 2025

Implications for capital gains, wealth taxes, and investment strategies require careful consideration, notes Anil Rego, founder and CEO, RightHorizons.

CBDT Uncovers Rs 290 Bn Foreign Assets

CBDT Uncovers Rs 290 Bn Foreign Assets

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

In September last year, India received financial information from over 108 countries regarding foreign accounts and income in the form of interest and dividend earned outside India.

Sebi brings in stricter disclosure norms for IPO-bound companies

Sebi brings in stricter disclosure norms for IPO-bound companies

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has introduced stricter Key Performance Indicator (KPI) disclosures for initial public offers (IPOs). These new standards, developed in collaboration with industry associations, aim to enhance transparency and provide investors with a clearer understanding of a company's valuation and business performance.

LS passes Waqf bill by 288-232 votes; Oppn's amendments rejected

LS passes Waqf bill by 288-232 votes; Oppn's amendments rejected

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with the ruling NDA defending it as beneficial for minorities while the opposition called it "anti-Muslim". All amendments moved by the opposition were rejected and the bill was passed with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. Union Minorities Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju asserted that India is the safest place in the world for minorities, refuting claims of their insecurity.

SC to examine PIL on Arunachal CM awarding contracts to kin

SC to examine PIL on Arunachal CM awarding contracts to kin

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court has agreed to examine a PIL alleging that Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu awarded government contracts to his family members. The court has asked the state government to provide details of the beneficiaries and inform if due process was followed. The bench also sought responses from union ministries of home affairs, finance and the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on the issue within five weeks.

BFI secretary general Kalita suspended for financial fraud

BFI secretary general Kalita suspended for financial fraud

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

Before being elected as secretary general for the 2021-25 term, Kalita had served as the treasurer of the apex boxing body.

FAQ: IT Dept Can Check E-mail, WhatsApp

FAQ: IT Dept Can Check E-mail, WhatsApp

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

Here's what you must know about the new rule, its implications, and whether it affects taxpayers' rights and privacy.

Draft sports bill could pose problems for IOA

Draft sports bill could pose problems for IOA

Rediff.com21 Jan 2025

Ministry mulls graded funding for sports federations

Unconstitutional: Roll back 4% Muslim quota in contracts, BJP asks Sidda

Unconstitutional: Roll back 4% Muslim quota in contracts, BJP asks Sidda

Rediff.com17 Mar 2025

The BJP has vehemently criticized the Karnataka government's decision to provide four per cent reservation for Muslims in government contracts, labeling it an "unconstitutional misadventure." The party has pledged to challenge the move in court and has vowed to oppose it at all levels. Meanwhile, the ruling Congress party has defended the reservation, arguing that it aligns with constitutional provisions. The issue has led to heated exchanges in the Karnataka Assembly, with both parties accusing each other of engaging in appeasement politics.

Modi pushes for open source AI framework at global summit

Modi pushes for open source AI framework at global summit

Rediff.com12 Feb 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for a global framework for artificial intelligence (AI) based on open source, emphasizing the need for trust, transparency, and the elimination of biases. Co-chairing the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron, Modi highlighted the transformative potential of AI across various domains, including politics, economics, security, and society. He stressed the importance of democratizing technology, addressing concerns about cyber security and disinformation, and developing quality data sets free from biases. Modi also acknowledged the need for open-source AI ecosystems to foster trust and transparency, while emphasizing the importance of localized technology for effectiveness and usefulness. Recognizing the potential of AI to improve health, education, and agriculture, Modi proposed pooling resources and talent to leverage the technology for sustainable development goals. Addressing concerns about job displacement, he emphasized that while the nature of work may evolve, technology creates new opportunities. Modi highlighted India's leadership in AI adoption and data privacy solutions, emphasizing the nation's readiness to share its expertise and contribute to an AI future that benefits all.

'CMO Delhi' handle renamed on X, BJP urges LG to intervene

'CMO Delhi' handle renamed on X, BJP urges LG to intervene

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

The BJP has demanded the intervention of the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi in the renaming of the official 'CMO Delhi' handle on X to 'Arvind Kejriwal At Work', alleging that the change was made at the behest of the former chief minister. The party accused Arvind Kejriwal of misusing public funds for his own digital propaganda and demanded legal action against him. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) responded by urging the BJP to focus on governing Delhi instead of making "baseless allegations."

CEC reacts on EVM, voter roll tampering allegations

CEC reacts on EVM, voter roll tampering allegations

Rediff.com7 Jan 2025

On deletions, Kumar clarified that they are processed only through Form 7 or Form B, following strict guidelines.

Legal experts hail CJI's decision on Delhi HC judge cash row

Legal experts hail CJI's decision on Delhi HC judge cash row

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

Legal experts have lauded Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna's decision to make public crucial documents related to a controversy surrounding the alleged discovery of cash from Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma's residence. They also welcomed the formation of an in-house committee to further investigate the matter. While some expressed concerns about the incident's impact on the judiciary's image, others emphasized the need for transparency and a fair inquiry. The Supreme Court released the inquiry report by Delhi High Court Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya, which included photos and videos of the alleged cash discovery. Justice Varma has denied the allegations, calling them a "conspiracy to frame and malign him."

Kash Patel becomes first Indian-American to lead FBI

Kash Patel becomes first Indian-American to lead FBI

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

Dan Scavino, Assistant to the President and White House Deputy Chief of Staff on Thursday said that United States President Donald Trump has officially signed the commission to confirm Kash Patel as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

'Sri Lanka's Relations With India At All-Time High'

'Sri Lanka's Relations With India At All-Time High'

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

'Granting the country's highest civilian honour to Prime Minister Modi was surprising as it indicated the government was going out of its way to have India as a close partner.'

Address grievance redressal promptly, RBI guv tells banks

Address grievance redressal promptly, RBI guv tells banks

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

'In this age of competition, we will not survive long if we do not provide quality service to our consumers'

Why Kerala Opposes Sand Sea Mining

Why Kerala Opposes Sand Sea Mining

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

If as critics point out, the environmental impact assessment study was commissioned only after the auction process got underway with not all the stakeholders getting to know of it, then the government has already compromised the trust it could have enjoyed with Kerala's public including its coastal communities, points out Shyam G Menon.

SC refuses stay on Adani's Dharavi redevelopment project

SC refuses stay on Adani's Dharavi redevelopment project

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has refused to halt the redevelopment project of Dharavi in Mumbai, allowing the Adani Group to proceed with their project. The court rejected a plea from Seclink Technologies Corporation, the original highest bidder for the project in 2018, which challenged the tender process and the award to Adani Properties Pvt Ltd in 2022. The court directed Adani Properties to make payments through a single bank account and ordered Seclink Technologies to file an affidavit detailing their increased offer for the project. The project work has already commenced, with constructions underway and 2,000 people employed on the site.

'Consumers should not pay higher taxes for clean technologies'

'Consumers should not pay higher taxes for clean technologies'

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

'We are not asking for incentives, but at least taxation can be aligned such that the rupee tax on consumers remains the same.'

Rs 1 Trillion Welfare Funds Idle in States

Rs 1 Trillion Welfare Funds Idle in States

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Grameen has the highest unutilised amount (Rs 13,111 crore) compared to any other centrally sponsored scheme.

Will Trump-Putin Reach A Deal On Ukraine?

Will Trump-Putin Reach A Deal On Ukraine?

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

Putin is keen on establishing a good personal rapport with Trump and anchor a meaningful US-Russia partnership, realistic enough to accept that Trump is as good an American president as Russia would ever get, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Waqf panel adopts draft report, Oppn to submit dissent

Waqf panel adopts draft report, Oppn to submit dissent

Rediff.com29 Jan 2025

Opposition MPs, some of whom have given their dissent, slammed the exercise as undemocratic, claiming that they were given little time to study the final report and frame their dissent notes.

EC invites Cong team to discuss concerns over Maha poll results

EC invites Cong team to discuss concerns over Maha poll results

Rediff.com30 Nov 2024

The EC reiterated that the process was transparent with the involvement of candidates or their agents at every stage.

President's rule imposed in Manipur to buy time: Opposition

President's rule imposed in Manipur to buy time: Opposition

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

Opposition parties in India have criticized the imposition of President's rule in strife-torn Manipur, accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of failing to address the ethnic violence and using the measure to cover up internal conflicts within the party. They demanded a clear roadmap for restoring peace and questioned the government's lack of transparency and inaction on the issue. The violence, which erupted in May 2023, has left over 250 people dead.

Govt lifts ban on Wrestling Federation of India

Govt lifts ban on Wrestling Federation of India

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

The Sports Ministry on Tuesday lifted its suspension on the Wrestling Federation of India, paving the way for the organisation of domestic tournaments.

Irdai seeks IPO road map from 10 insurers

Irdai seeks IPO road map from 10 insurers

Rediff.com19 Feb 2025

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) has asked at least 10 general and life insurance companies to submit a detailed road map for their listing strategies by the end of this month, according to multiple sources with direct knowledge of the matter. "The regulator met four life and six general insurers last month and asked them to provide their listing strategies by the end of February," said one of the sources.

DeepSeek: China's AI Guerilla War On US

DeepSeek: China's AI Guerilla War On US

Rediff.com6 Feb 2025

DeepSeek is a case in point on how economic interdependence between nations are utilised for geopolitical ambitions and global domination efforts, observes China expert Srikanth Kondapalli.

Maha makes FASTag toll collection mandatory from April 1

Maha makes FASTag toll collection mandatory from April 1

Rediff.com7 Jan 2025

The Maharashtra cabinet has approved the mandatory use of FASTag for toll collection across the state from April 1. This move is expected to streamline administrative processes, enhance transparency, and reduce congestion at toll plazas. The cabinet also approved revisions to the Rules of Business, streamlining administrative functioning and making it more efficient. The revisions include provisions related to matters to be presented before the cabinet, cases requiring approval from the Chief Minister or Governor, and procedures for meetings of the cabinet and council of ministers.