News for 'union-territories'

SC: Immediate FIRs must be filed for all missing persons, not just children

SC: Immediate FIRs must be filed for all missing persons, not just children

Rediff.com18 hours ago

The Supreme Court has clarified that its order for immediate FIR registration in missing persons cases applies to every individual, regardless of age or gender, warning states and Union Territories of contempt proceedings for non-compliance.

Delhi jails near 200% capacity as India's prison occupancy crosses 112%

Delhi jails near 200% capacity as India's prison occupancy crosses 112%

Rediff.com6 days ago

India's prisons operated at 112.7 percent occupancy in 2024, with 609 jails housing more inmates than their sanctioned capacity and Delhi recording the highest occupancy rate of 194.6 percent, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

Flags should not be thrown on ground: MHA asks states, UTs to follow Flag Code

Flags should not be thrown on ground: MHA asks states, UTs to follow Flag Code

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Union home ministry directed all the states and Union territories on Monday to adhere to the Flag Code, underlining that while flags made of paper may be waved by the public on occasions of important national, cultural and sports events, those should not be discarded or thrown on the ground after the events.

Ladakh LG Enhances Horse Polo Cup Prize Fund

Ladakh LG Enhances Horse Polo Cup Prize Fund

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Ladakh's Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has significantly increased the prize money for the LG Horse Polo Cup to encourage greater participation in the sport across the union territory. This year's winners will receive Rs one lakh, with plans to further raise the prize to Rs two lakh next season. The recent UT-level championship saw 18 men's and four women's teams compete, with Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre winning the men's title.

Centre Revamps Khelo India Funding, States To Share Costs

Centre Revamps Khelo India Funding, States To Share Costs

Rediff.com6 days ago

The central government has revamped the Khelo India Scheme's funding pattern, allocating a Rs 565 crore component for states to co-share the cost of future sports infrastructure development projects over a five-year plan. This new model, part of a Rs 29,054 crore outlay, aims to increase state ownership and participation in sports development, significantly expanding the scheme's reach and athlete base.

Ladakh Marathon Announces Historic Rs 1 Crore Prize Pool For 2026 Edition

Ladakh Marathon Announces Historic Rs 1 Crore Prize Pool For 2026 Edition

Rediff.com3 days ago

The upcoming 2026 Ladakh Marathon will feature a record prize pool of Rs 1 crore, aiming to attract over 10,000 visitors globally. This high-altitude event, scheduled from September 10 to 13, is set to welcome participants from 28 Indian states, six Union Territories, and all six inhabited continents, reinforcing its growing international stature.

SC cracks down on cyber fraud, orders RBI SOP on mule accounts

SC cracks down on cyber fraud, orders RBI SOP on mule accounts

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Supreme Court has directed the Reserve Bank of India to prepare a standard operating procedure (SOP) within four weeks to deal with bank accounts linked to cyber frauds, including mule accounts. This directive is part of a broader effort to strengthen responses to cyber-enabled financial frauds, with the court also urging states and UTs to adopt and operationalise grievance redressal and money restoration modules.

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Union Territory administration in Ladakh has announced the establishment of an Autonomous Hill Development Council (AHDC) for each of its seven districts, significantly expanding democratic decentralisation. This move extends elected local self-governance beyond Leh and Kargil, with a proposed Union Territory-level body under a customised Article 371 framework to oversee these councils.

Foreign citizen can't be deported unless...: Centre to SC

Foreign citizen can't be deported unless...: Centre to SC

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that foreign nationals with unverified nationality cannot be deported unless their home country confirms their identity and agrees to accept them. This submission was made in response to a plea challenging indefinite detention of declared foreigners in Assam.

India invokes Gen Z in statement condemning PoK elections

India invokes Gen Z in statement condemning PoK elections

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

India has strongly criticised the local body elections in Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK), labelling them as a facade to conceal Pakistan's illegal occupation and severe human rights violations in the region. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India's stance that all of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, including PoK, are integral parts of India. He also dismissed Pakistan's claims to a shared cultural legacy, citing its history of promoting terrorism and fundamentalism.

Farooq Abdullah Sings Lata Mangeshkar Classic At Golf Tournament

Farooq Abdullah Sings Lata Mangeshkar Classic At Golf Tournament

Rediff.com4 days ago

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah surprised attendees at the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) tournament in Srinagar by spontaneously singing the iconic Lata Mangeshkar song "Lag ja gale". His impromptu performance drew significant applause. Later, Abdullah addressed the audience, commending golfers and urging youth to work hard and avoid alcohol to achieve sporting excellence. He also mentioned government support for improving the Royal Springs Golf Course.

TN assembly mandates state anthem at all official events

TN assembly mandates state anthem at all official events

Rediff.com2 days ago

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has moved a government resolution mandating the rendition of Tamil Thaai Vazhthu at the commencement of all government events, emphasising the state's linguistic and cultural rights amidst a Union Home Affairs Ministry advisory on Vande Mataram.

J&K Government To Make PGTI Golf Tournament An Annual Event

J&K Government To Make PGTI Golf Tournament An Annual Event

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Jammu and Kashmir government announced that the PGTI golf tournament, J&K Open, will become an annual event, with plans to establish a world-class golf academy and position the union territory as India's golfing capital.

Assam-Arunachal border row turns violent, 12 injured

Assam-Arunachal border row turns violent, 12 injured

Rediff.com1 days ago

At least 12 people from Assam were injured in alleged firing by miscreants from Arunachal Pradesh along the interstate border in Dhemaji district on Monday over encroachment of land, the police said.

NITI Aayog Index Reveals No State Achieves 'Top Performer' Status in Investment Friendliness

NITI Aayog Index Reveals No State Achieves 'Top Performer' Status in Investment Friendliness

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

NITI Aayog's inaugural Investment Friendliness Index, scoring 36 states and Union Territories on 84 indicators across eight pillars, revealed that no state or UT reached a score of 60 out of 100, indicating significant room for improvement in attracting investment.

'There is no Pakistani Kashmir, only PoK': India rebukes NYT headline

'There is no Pakistani Kashmir, only PoK': India rebukes NYT headline

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Indian Embassy in the US strongly refuted a New York Times headline referring to "Pakistani Kashmir," asserting that there is only Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and that Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India. The embassy highlighted Pakistan's illegal occupation and exploitation of these territories, linking it to ongoing protests in PoK.

Why JPC Deferred Constitution Amendment Bill Report

Why JPC Deferred Constitution Amendment Bill Report

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The dramatic postponement came while members were voting on the committee's five principal recommendations, making it an unprecedented moment in the functioning of a parliamentary committee.

'Delimitation Bill Is A Done Deal'

'Delimitation Bill Is A Done Deal'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'The BJP has all the instruments with them and they do have a sense of purpose, so I don't think there will be a challenge.'

JPC defers bill to remove PM, CMs in the midst of voting

JPC defers bill to remove PM, CMs in the midst of voting

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A Joint Committee of Parliament has deferred the adoption of a draft report on a bill proposing the suspension, not permanent removal, of the prime minister, Union ministers, and chief ministers if detained for 30 days on serious criminal charges, opting for more consultations.

How AIFF's New Governance Framework Empowers Retired Footballers

How AIFF's New Governance Framework Empowers Retired Footballers

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has opened applications for its Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) roster, a crucial step under the newly adopted National Sports Governance Act. This initiative aims to induct retired players into the federation's General Body, ensuring greater representation and direct involvement in governance. The process outlines specific eligibility criteria across various tiers of sporting achievement and allows direct applications, bypassing state association endorsements.

What you need to know about new Anti-Paper Leak Amendment Bill

What you need to know about new Anti-Paper Leak Amendment Bill

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, passed by the Lok Sabha, introduces significantly stricter punishments for individuals and organised groups involved in paper leaks and other unfair means in public examinations. The legislation aims to enhance the integrity of exams conducted by various central government agencies.

How Drones Are Revolutionising Flood Rescue In Gujarat

How Drones Are Revolutionising Flood Rescue In Gujarat

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

A Mehsana-based startup, Prime UAV, deployed drones to assist in the evacuation of people stranded due to floods in Dholka, Ahmedabad district. The drones provided surveillance, delivered essential supplies, and supported rescue operations in inaccessible areas, complementing efforts by local administration and the Army.

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shared a fabricated social media post attributed to former US President Donald Trump, captioned 'If only!', to highlight his demand for the restoration of J&K's statehood, drawing significant criticism online.

Thousands Mourn J&K Policeman Slain By Terrorists

Thousands Mourn J&K Policeman Slain By Terrorists

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Thousands gather in Budgam to bid an emotional farewell to policeman Ashiq Hussain, killed in a militant attack in Anantnag.

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has completed one year, leading to the deletion of nearly six crore voters across 19 states and Union territories. This exercise, which began in Bihar, has faced opposition criticism but was upheld by the Supreme Court. The purification drive has significant implications, including linking voter data to social security benefits in some states.

CJP protest: SC clarifies order, allows FIR withdrawal

CJP protest: SC clarifies order, allows FIR withdrawal

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has clarified that 'criminal antecedents' for NEET paper leak protesters refer only to grave and heinous offences, allowing state governments to withdraw FIRs against students not involved in such serious crimes. This comes after the Centre's commitment to not pursue cases against most protesting students.

MHA issues fresh National Anthem, National Song guidelines

MHA issues fresh National Anthem, National Song guidelines

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued fresh directions to all state governments, Union Territory administrations, and central ministries, reiterating the rules governing the singing and playing of the National Anthem and the National Song, calling for their strict compliance.

Sheikh Abdullah's Ouster Began J&K's Long Road To 2019

Sheikh Abdullah's Ouster Began J&K's Long Road To 2019

Rediff.com2 days ago

Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah's dismissal and arrest on August 9, 1953 marked a decisive shift in the Centre-J&K power equation. Seven decades later, the erosion of the state's special constitutional position culminated in the August 5, 2019 changes, notes Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

Centre revives women's quota Bill, reaches out to Congress, DMK

Centre revives women's quota Bill, reaches out to Congress, DMK

Rediff.com6 days ago

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to discuss resolving the persistent deadlock in the Lok Sabha's monsoon session, focusing on the Delimitation Bill and FCRA Bill, though no immediate commitment was secured from the Congress leader.

How Landeed's Rs 30 Crore Investment Will Transform Property Due Diligence

How Landeed's Rs 30 Crore Investment Will Transform Property Due Diligence

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Real estate startup Landeed plans to invest Rs 30 crore this fiscal year to expand its business, focusing on enhancing its AI-powered property title search engine, Terra. This investment will boost GPU infrastructure, develop specialised language models, and improve Indic OCR for Indian property records, aiming to streamline property due diligence across 26 states and 4 union territories.

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Sadhguru's Isha Gramotsavam, a rural sports festival, is expanding its 18th edition into North India, covering 10 states and one Union Territory. This year's event will engage over 80,000 players from 40,000 villages in men's volleyball and women's throwball, offering a prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, with the aim of social transformation through sport.

Why Sharad Pawar Has Not Joined BJP Yet

Why Sharad Pawar Has Not Joined BJP Yet

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

At this point at 85, Sharad Pawar is like a mature but ageing trapeze artist who is assessing if he will still land on his feet if he jumps from the safe perch of INDIA to the NDA. Can a Great Betrayal be presented as a tactical move? Watch Sharad Pawar do it, predicts Aditi Phadnis.

How India's World Bicycle Day Celebrations Earned Global Praise

How India's World Bicycle Day Celebrations Earned Global Praise

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The International Cycling Union (UCI) has praised India's "outstanding success" in its nationwide World Bicycle Day celebrations, which involved approximately 200 cities and towns across 28 States and Union Territories. UCI President David Lappartient commended the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) for its remarkable organisational efforts and also lauded the launch of the Asmita Women's League, a grassroots programme aimed at promoting gender equity in cycling.

'Enemies like India': Pakistan rules out talks with PoK protesters

'Enemies like India': Pakistan rules out talks with PoK protesters

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Terming protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as "enemies" like India, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said there will be no dialogue with them, even as the death toll due to clashes between demonstrators and security personnel rose to 20 on Wednesday.

J-K: Amarnath, Vaishno Devi pilgrimages suspended amid rain forecast

J-K: Amarnath, Vaishno Devi pilgrimages suspended amid rain forecast

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Authorities on Sunday temporarily suspended the Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir as well as the pilgrimages to the Mata Vaishno Devi and Shiv Khori shrines in Jammu after the India meteorological department (IMD) forecast of widespread rainfall across the Union Territory over the next few days.

Continue HPV drive, but beware of 'half-baked' vaccines: HC

Continue HPV drive, but beware of 'half-baked' vaccines: HC

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has declined to halt the Centre's HPV immunisation campaign, noting that data on 5.5 million administered vaccines showed no 'instant harm'. However, the court emphasised that 'half-baked vaccines' should not be given to the public and raised 'serious issues' regarding past protocol violations in vaccine testing and certification.

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Parliament on Thursday passed a bill to amend the anti-paper leak law to introduce stricter punishments, with the government expressing its commitment to go the extra mile to safeguard the interests of students, who are the country's future.

'Make A Hindu Kashmir And Declare It Union Territory'

'Make A Hindu Kashmir And Declare It Union Territory'

Rediff.com20 Jan 2026

'Kashmir needs to be divided and we need the land of Panun Kashmir in Kashmir.'

Supreme Court pat for lawyer over CCTVs in police stations nationwide

Supreme Court pat for lawyer over CCTVs in police stations nationwide

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has observed a 'positive turn' in the progress of installing CCTV cameras in police stations across India, acknowledging substantial efforts made in recent months.

PoK elections turn deadly, JAAC alleges 14 activists killed

PoK elections turn deadly, JAAC alleges 14 activists killed

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Clashes erupted during the first phase of legislative assembly elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), with the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) claiming 14 deaths, a figure disputed by law enforcement. India condemned the elections as an attempt by Pakistan to legitimise its illegal occupation and human rights abuses in the region, while ongoing JAAC protests highlight deep-seated grievances.