News for 'us citizens'

Iran Ceasefire: Pakistan Was Reading From Washington's Script

Iran Ceasefire: Pakistan Was Reading From Washington's Script

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

By all available indications, the White House drafted a face-saving note and handed it, ready-made, to Islamabad. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was supposed to then post it in the guise of a plea urging Trump to extend the deadline by two weeks 'to allow diplomacy to run its course'. Trump would then graciously accept Pakistan's 'request' and declare a ceasefire. Sharif dutifully posted the message on X. Except that he, or whoever was handling the account, forgot to delete the tell-tale first line visible in the edit history: 'Draft - Pakistan's PM Message on X'. Prem Panicker's must read blog on the Iran War.

UK-Based Doctor Claims FIR is Attempt to Criminalise Political Speech

UK-Based Doctor Claims FIR is Attempt to Criminalise Political Speech

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

A UK-based doctor, Sangram Patil, is challenging an FIR filed against him in India for alleged objectionable remarks against BJP leaders, claiming it's an attempt to criminalise political speech and dissent.

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government is facing criticism after an acid attack on a Class 6 girl student in Sangamner. The Congress party has slammed the government in the legislative assembly, alleging a deterioration in law and order in the state. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of women and girls in Maharashtra.

Bill Introduced to Promote Ease of Business and Living

Bill Introduced to Promote Ease of Business and Living

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The government has introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to amend provisions for decriminalising minor offences, aiming to promote ease of doing business and living.

Over 800 Indians evacuated from Iran via Armenia, Azerbaijan

Over 800 Indians evacuated from Iran via Armenia, Azerbaijan

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that nearly 880 Indian nationals, including students, have been evacuated from Iran via Armenia and Azerbaijan due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Alliance in Kerala

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Alliance in Kerala

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi has accused the ruling LDF in Kerala and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of being Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "B-team" and of secretly joining hands with the BJP, alleging a compromised leadership and lack of accountability.

How India's New Phygital Centre Aims to Transform Rural Life in Madhya Pradesh

How India's New Phygital Centre Aims to Transform Rural Life in Madhya Pradesh

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

India has launched its first integrated phygital service centre in Umri village, Madhya Pradesh, aiming to provide online services and boost rural development through digital connectivity and various essential services.

Karnataka Govt Assures Safety of Kannadigas Amid Middle East Conflict

Karnataka Govt Assures Safety of Kannadigas Amid Middle East Conflict

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has assured the safety of Kannadigas residing in the Middle East amid escalating conflict, directing officials to take proactive measures and operationalize a dedicated helpline.

Still Haven't Made Your Tax-Saving Investments?

Still Haven't Made Your Tax-Saving Investments?

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

In the rush to complete tax-saving investments at the end of the financial year, many taxpayers choose instruments that do not match their long-term financial goals.

How an 81-Year-Old Businessman Was Defrauded of Rs 15 Crore in a Cyber Scam

How an 81-Year-Old Businessman Was Defrauded of Rs 15 Crore in a Cyber Scam

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

An 81-year-old businessman in Belagavi, Karnataka, was allegedly defrauded of over Rs 15 crore in a 'digital arrest' scam. Fraudsters posing as CBI officials accused him of financial crimes and coerced him into transferring funds to a 'safe account'.

Budgam Man Faces Charges for Allegedly Inciting Unrest via Social Media Videos

Budgam Man Faces Charges for Allegedly Inciting Unrest via Social Media Videos

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

A man in Budgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, has been booked by police for allegedly circulating provocative videos on social media platforms, potentially inciting public unrest and disturbing communal harmony.

SIT probing Kharat gets over 50 calls reporting crimes

SIT probing Kharat gets over 50 calls reporting crimes

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing allegations against Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman accused of rape, has received a surge of calls providing information and reporting alleged crimes after a public appeal.

Delhi Police Appeal for Peace Following Uttam Nagar Incident

Delhi Police Appeal for Peace Following Uttam Nagar Incident

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Delhi Police have appealed to citizens to maintain peace and harmony following the death of a 26-year-old man during Holi celebrations in Uttam Nagar. The police are urging people not to spread rumours and misinformation on social media.

'BJP seal' on affidavit: EC orders police action

'BJP seal' on affidavit: EC orders police action

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Kerala Police have initiated a crackdown on misleading election-related news circulating on social media platforms, following a controversy over an Election Commission letter bearing the BJP Kerala unit's seal.

Gurugram Officials Bust LPG Black Marketing Operation, Seize Cylinders

Gurugram Officials Bust LPG Black Marketing Operation, Seize Cylinders

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Authorities in Gurugram, India, have cracked down on the black marketing of domestic LPG cylinders, seizing 32 cylinders and detaining one individual involved in illegally siphoning gas.

Several US jets crash, fire at embassy compound: Kuwait

Several US jets crash, fire at embassy compound: Kuwait

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Kuwaiti Defence Ministry said all crew members of the crashed aircraft ejected safely and were taken to a hospital for medical check-ups.

Census twist: Live-in couples seen as 'married' if they call it stable

Census twist: Live-in couples seen as 'married' if they call it stable

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The 16th Census of India in 2026 will treat stable live-in relationships as marriages, according to the self-enumeration portal's FAQ section. The portal provides guidance on various housing and household-related questions for self-enumeration.

India's 2027 Census to be fully digital; first phase from April 1

India's 2027 Census to be fully digital; first phase from April 1

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

India has launched digital tools for its upcoming fully digital Census 2027, including mobile apps and a self-enumeration portal, aiming for efficient and accurate data collection.

Haryana Police Crackdown Ahead of Holi

Haryana Police Crackdown Ahead of Holi

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Haryana Police launched 'Operation Aakraman-21' across the state, resulting in numerous arrests and seizures of drugs, illicit liquor, and illegal arms.

Parliament Budget Session: LS debates FCRA amendment; Oppn raises flag

Parliament Budget Session: LS debates FCRA amendment; Oppn raises flag

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Lok Sabha takes up FCRA Amendment Bill amid opposition protests.

India commissions nuclear submarine INS Aridaman, indigenous stealth frigate INS Taragiri

India commissions nuclear submarine INS Aridaman, indigenous stealth frigate INS Taragiri

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

India has commissioned its new indigenously-built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine INS Aridaman into service, further strengthening the naval component of its nuclear triad. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also highlighted the Indian Navy's role in securing maritime trade routes.

Strikes aimed to remove 'existential threat': Netanyahu

Strikes aimed to remove 'existential threat': Netanyahu

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a joint operation with the US against Iran, citing the threat posed by its nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism.

Caste system is meant to organise society: Adityanath

Caste system is meant to organise society: Adityanath

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Yogi Adityanath champions national unity over caste divisions, asserting that 'casteism' weakens India's social fabric and hinders its progress on the global stage.

Indian National Killed in Riyadh; Embassy Offers Condolences

Indian National Killed in Riyadh; Embassy Offers Condolences

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

An Indian national has died in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under unclear circumstances following recent events. The Indian Embassy is providing assistance to the family and liaising with local authorities.

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Indian government addressed opposition concerns regarding the West Asia crisis in an all-party meeting, outlining its strategy for ensuring the security of the Indian diaspora, fulfilling energy needs, and maintaining diplomatic relations with key partners. The government also dismissed Pakistan's reported mediation efforts.

Karur stampede: CBI summons Vijay on March 10 for another round of questioning

Karur stampede: CBI summons Vijay on March 10 for another round of questioning

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The CBI has summoned actor Vijay for further questioning regarding the 2025 Karur stampede that resulted in 41 deaths. This follows previous questioning and the gathering of new evidence requiring clarification from the actor.

Saini Criticises AAP's Governance in Punjab, Highlights BJP's Development Agenda

Saini Criticises AAP's Governance in Punjab, Highlights BJP's Development Agenda

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini criticised the Aam Aadmi Party's governance in Punjab, citing issues such as drug addiction, crime, and financial instability. He promoted the BJP as an alternative, highlighting their development agenda and commitment to fulfilling promises.

India pushing for dialogue, diplomacy to resolve West Asia crisis, Modi tells LS

India pushing for dialogue, diplomacy to resolve West Asia crisis, Modi tells LS

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Parliament on the West Asia crisis, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy, ensuring the safety of Indians in the region, and addressing concerns about fuel and food security.

8 Indians dead, one missing so far in West Asia conflict: Govt

8 Indians dead, one missing so far in West Asia conflict: Govt

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the deaths of eight Indian nationals and one missing person in West Asia due to the ongoing conflict. The Indian government is providing support to affected families and facilitating the return of citizens from the region.

Indian Aviation Sector Grapples with Aircraft Supply Chain Bottleneck

Indian Aviation Sector Grapples with Aircraft Supply Chain Bottleneck

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu highlights challenges in aircraft procurement due to global supply chain disruptions, impacting India's aviation sector growth and expansion plans.

Maharashtra Govt Launches Helpline for Stranded Residents in Middle East

Maharashtra Govt Launches Helpline for Stranded Residents in Middle East

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government has launched an emergency WhatsApp helpline for state residents stranded in the Middle East due to airspace closures amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is monitoring the situation and coordinating with central agencies.

Punjab Budget Prioritises Security and Surveillance

Punjab Budget Prioritises Security and Surveillance

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

The Punjab government has allocated Rs 11,577 crore to home affairs, justice, and jails in the 2026-27 budget, focusing on strengthening institutional capacity, technology-driven surveillance, and prison security.

Modi speaks to Iran's President Pezeshkian as West Asia tensions escalate

Modi speaks to Iran's President Pezeshkian as West Asia tensions escalate

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the escalating tensions in West Asia, emphasising the safety of Indian nationals and the need for regional stability through dialogue and diplomacy.

Modi to interact with chief ministers over West Asia conflict

Modi to interact with chief ministers over West Asia conflict

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with chief ministers of most states to assess their preparedness and strategies in response to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Opposition and Activists Call for Withdrawal of Transgender Rights Amendment Bill

Opposition and Activists Call for Withdrawal of Transgender Rights Amendment Bill

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs and transgender rights activists are urging the withdrawal of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, citing concerns that the proposed changes could weaken the rights of transgender individuals.

Opposition and Activists Call for Withdrawal of Transgender Rights Amendment Bill

Opposition and Activists Call for Withdrawal of Transgender Rights Amendment Bill

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs and transgender rights activists are calling for the withdrawal of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, citing concerns that the proposed changes could dilute the rights of transgender individuals.

Iran war: What govt said about LPG and crude oil supply

Iran war: What govt said about LPG and crude oil supply

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia, the Oil Ministry assures citizens that India's LPG supply remains secure, with no need for panic booking of cylinders. The normal delivery cycle of two-and-a-half days is being maintained, and crude oil is being sourced from diverse routes.

Karur stampede: CBI to quiz TVK chief Vijay again on Sunday

Karur stampede: CBI to quiz TVK chief Vijay again on Sunday

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The CBI has summoned actor Vijay for questioning in connection with the 2025 Karur stampede case, which resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. The investigation follows a Supreme Court order emphasizing impartiality and thoroughness.

Man Held at India-Nepal Border for Using Fake Documents

Man Held at India-Nepal Border for Using Fake Documents

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

A man was arrested by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at the India-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh's Balrampur district for attempting to enter Nepal using fake documents.

Privatisation push loses steam as IDBI Bank stake sale scrapped

Privatisation push loses steam as IDBI Bank stake sale scrapped

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

India's privatisation push, once projected as a cornerstone of economic reform, has suffered another setback, with the Centre set to call off the IDBI Bank stake sale, highlighting the political and structural constraints shaping the country's disinvestment policy, experts say.