News for 'west'

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Supreme Court has issued interim directions regarding nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, ordering the release of minor student protesters without criminal records and directing states to preserve all digital evidence. The court also called for a fair and independent investigation into allegations of police excesses against students, while also acknowledging concerns for injured police personnel.

WB SIT reconstructs scene of minor's rape-murder in Baruipur

WB SIT reconstructs scene of minor's rape-murder in Baruipur

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has reconstructed the crime scene of a rape and murder case in Baruipur, West Bengal, with the three arrested accused. Forensic experts collected new samples, and the reconstruction aimed to verify statements and corroborate evidence. This follows a previous incident where another accused was killed during a similar reconstruction. The Chief Minister has assured personal monitoring of the investigation, and four separate cases have been registered related to the incident and subsequent events.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian wedding bookings to Sri Lanka are projected to grow 20-25 per cent annually over the next few years.

Strong H1 Numbers May Propel Passenger Vehicles to Record 2026 Sales

Strong H1 Numbers May Propel Passenger Vehicles to Record 2026 Sales

Rediff.com2 days ago

India's passenger vehicle industry is poised for a record-breaking year in 2026, propelled by robust dispatches in the first half of the calendar year and strong demand for utility vehicles, despite facing several economic challenges.

Murder, robbery, rape accused among hundreds at CJP protest: Police

Murder, robbery, rape accused among hundreds at CJP protest: Police

Rediff.com2 days ago

A police investigation into the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar revealed that over 980 of the 2,873 scrutinised individuals had previous criminal records. These included serious charges such as murder, attempt to murder, robbery, rape, kidnapping, and violations of the Arms Act and NDPS Act. The verification exercise was initiated following clashes during the 'Chalo Sansad' protest on July 20, which left many protestors and police personnel injured.

ICICI Bank raises $1 bn in largest dollar issue this year, signalling strong investor confidence

ICICI Bank raises $1 bn in largest dollar issue this year, signalling strong investor confidence

Rediff.com4 days ago

ICICI Bank has successfully raised $1 billion through a five-year senior unsecured US dollar bond, marking its first public dollar bond issuance since 2017 and the largest single-tranche US dollar bond issuance by an Indian issuer so far this year.

Can West Bengal Regain Its Lost Pride?

Can West Bengal Regain Its Lost Pride?

Rediff.com1 May 2026

If West Bengal does not begin to reclaim its lost pride, the state would have lost -- perhaps irreversibly, this time, notes Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

RBI 'keeping close watch' on West Asia conflict for policy action

RBI 'keeping close watch' on West Asia conflict for policy action

Rediff.com19 May 2026

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the central bank is closely monitoring whether the supply shock from the West Asia conflict will lead to a generalised price rise, potentially necessitating monetary policy action.

'Nobody can come close': Kapil's Sobers tribute

'Nobody can come close': Kapil's Sobers tribute

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India captain Kapil Dev paid tribute to the late Sir Garfield Sobers, hailing him as a revolutionary cricketer who inspired generations and changed the approach to the sport. Dev highlighted Sobers' unparalleled talent as an all-rounder and his impact on traditional cricketing methods.

Equally talented but mindset separates Virat Kohli and KL Rahul: Wasim Jaffer

Equally talented but mindset separates Virat Kohli and KL Rahul: Wasim Jaffer

Rediff.com7 days ago

Former India opener and coach Wasim Jaffer believes KL Rahul has the talent and technical ability to match Virat Kohli but said Kohli's elite mindset and consistency are what set him apart.

'Ship has safely crossed Hormuz': Indian sailor's message before death in attack

'Ship has safely crossed Hormuz': Indian sailor's message before death in attack

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Herambh Karmarkar, a 30-year-old marine engineer from Pune, was killed in an attack on a Cyprus-flagged commercial vessel off Oman's coast amidst the West Asia conflict, with his family now awaiting the return of his mortal remains.

West Bengal Minister Attends Fish Fest, Denies Dietary Restrictions

West Bengal Minister Attends Fish Fest, Denies Dietary Restrictions

Rediff.com10 May 2026

West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh attended a fish festival, refuting claims that the BJP would restrict fish and meat consumption if it won the assembly elections. He accused former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of spreading false narratives during the campaign.

Remembering Garry Sobers: The Greatest Cricketer Ever

Remembering Garry Sobers: The Greatest Cricketer Ever

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Sir Garfield Sobers, widely considered the greatest all-rounder in cricket history, passed away just days before his 90th birthday, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy that included a significant connection with India both on and off the field.

After NEET backlash, BJP turns to Instagram to win back young voters

After NEET backlash, BJP turns to Instagram to win back young voters

Rediff.com1 days ago

The BJP is significantly increasing its digital engagement with young people on Instagram, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several Union ministers, in response to the NEET-UG paper leak controversy and subsequent student protests. This strategic shift aims to counter the narrative and communicate government actions on examination reforms.

Indian crew member killed, 6 injured in Iranian missile strike on UAE tankers

Indian crew member killed, 6 injured in Iranian missile strike on UAE tankers

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

An Indian crew member was killed and six other Indian nationals were among eight injured when Iranian cruise missiles struck two UAE tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating regional tensions and drawing strong condemnation from the UAE.

West Bengal To Re-Verify Caste Certificates Issued Since 2011

West Bengal To Re-Verify Caste Certificates Issued Since 2011

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The West Bengal government has initiated a re-verification process for all caste certificates issued since 2011, following allegations of irregularities during the previous administration.

Spain's 2nd Title in 8 Nations World Cup Club

Spain's 2nd Title in 8 Nations World Cup Club

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Since the FIFA World Cup's inaugural tournament in 1930, 23 competitions have occurred up to 2026. Interestingly, only 8 countries have succeeded in claiming the famous trophy and on Sunday, Spain added their second title.

West Asia Tensions Begin Disrupting India's Auto Supply Chain, Margins

West Asia Tensions Begin Disrupting India's Auto Supply Chain, Margins

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia are beginning to disrupt India's automotive supply chain, leading to rising commodity prices, logistics bottlenecks, material shortages, and pressure on consumer demand, with two-wheeler makers already raising prices.

Gen Z Protests: 'Biggest Blow Has Been To The Prime Minister

Gen Z Protests: 'Biggest Blow Has Been To The Prime Minister

Rediff.com49 minutes ago

'After more than 12 years in power, he has been forced to retreat under public pressure. The education minister's resignation is the biggest political climbdown of his government so far.'

West Bengal To Adopt Ayushman Bharat, BNS Criminal Law

West Bengal To Adopt Ayushman Bharat, BNS Criminal Law

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, has announced the implementation of several key administrative and policy measures, including the adoption of the Ayushman Bharat health scheme, land transfer to the BSF for border fencing, and the implementation of the BNS criminal law.

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's Minister To West Bengal Chief Minister

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's Minister To West Bengal Chief Minister

Rediff.com9 May 2026

In West Bengal's political circles, it was widely believed that after Mamata Banerjee, Suvendu Adhikhari was perhaps the only leader with a truly significant mass base of his own.

Thousands Bids Farewell To Ayatollah Khamenei

Thousands Bids Farewell To Ayatollah Khamenei

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Thousands of mourners gathered at Tehran's Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla on July 4, 2026 for a farewell ceremony honouring Iran's late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei was killed on February 28 in Israeli and US airstrikes. Grieving crowds carried his portrait and expressed raw emotion as Iran continues its multi-day state funeral proceedings for the slain leader.

Suvendu Adhikari's PA Shot At In West Bengal

Suvendu Adhikari's PA Shot At In West Bengal

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari's personal assistant, Chandranath Rath, was shot at by unidentified assailants in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. He sustained multiple bullet injuries and is currently hospitalised. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

MEA condemns attack on Indian crew in Strait of Hormuz

MEA condemns attack on Indian crew in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India has condemned an attack on a Cyprus-flagged commercial vessel off the coast of Oman, which resulted in one Indian crew member going missing. The incident occurred amidst escalating hostilities between Iran and the US in West Asia, prompting India to call for immediate de-escalation and an end to targeting commercial shipping in the region.

Mamata's long-time aide Madan Mitra joins rebel camp

Mamata's long-time aide Madan Mitra joins rebel camp

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Senior Trinamool Congress MLA Madan Mitra has joined the rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee, resigning from all organisational posts under Mamata Banerjee's leadership while maintaining his Trinamool MLA status. This move significantly bolsters the rebel camp and intensifies the power struggle within the party, coming amidst a municipal recruitment scam investigation involving Mitra's family.

TMC MP suspended from Lok Sabha for 'unsavoury' language against women members

TMC MP suspended from Lok Sabha for 'unsavoury' language against women members

Rediff.com7 days ago

Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee has been suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the Monsoon session due to his use of "unsavoury" language against women members during a heated exchange with NCPI members.

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

Rediff.com4 days ago

Dharmendra Pradhan's political career faced an unexpected jolt as he resigned as Education Minister following nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, marking a significant departure from the government's initial dismissive response to the agitation.

Kolkata HC orders immediate arrest of Delhi Capitals' Abishek Porel in rape case

Kolkata HC orders immediate arrest of Delhi Capitals' Abishek Porel in rape case

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Calcutta High Court has ordered the immediate arrest of Delhi Capitals wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel in connection with a rape case and instructed police to seize his electronic devices to safeguard the complainant's privacy during the investigation.

India's Auto Sector Records Highest-Ever Q1 Dispatches in FY27

India's Auto Sector Records Highest-Ever Q1 Dispatches in FY27

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Domestic passenger vehicle dispatches in India reached a record 12,73,811 units in the first quarter of FY27, marking a 25.9 per cent growth, driven by robust domestic demand despite geopolitical headwinds, according to SIAM.

West Bengal Government Approves CBI Action In Corruption Cases

West Bengal Government Approves CBI Action In Corruption Cases

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The West Bengal government has granted the CBI sanction to proceed against officials accused in corruption cases linked to recruitments in schools and civic bodies.

Mohan Yadav Predicts BJP Government In West Bengal

Mohan Yadav Predicts BJP Government In West Bengal

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has expressed confidence that the BJP will form a government in West Bengal, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and citing high voter turnout as a sign of public trust.

India's Exports Up 15.5% in June, Trade Deficit Hits Record $30.43 Billion

India's Exports Up 15.5% in June, Trade Deficit Hits Record $30.43 Billion

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

India's exports increased by 15.5 per cent to USD 40.41 billion in June, but the trade deficit significantly widened to a record USD 30.43 billion due to a 31 per cent surge in imports.

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Rediff.com1 days ago

For India, the guiding principle should remain clear: Engage Bangladesh as a sovereign nation and society rather than through the prism of any individual leader or political party, suggests Manoj Mohanka.

West Asia Crisis To Hit India's Growth Hard

West Asia Crisis To Hit India's Growth Hard

Rediff.com12 May 2026

A prolonged supply shock can transmit to lower incomes, and dampen confidence and sentiment, warns Aditi Nayar, chief economist, head-research and outreach, ICRA.

West Asia Conflict to Impact Indian Cement Firms' Profitability from Q1FY27

West Asia Conflict to Impact Indian Cement Firms' Profitability from Q1FY27

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Indian cement manufacturers, despite a stable Q4FY26, are bracing for significant profitability pressures from Q1FY27 onwards due to escalating input costs, primarily driven by the West Asia conflict's impact on coal and petcoke prices.

'Sobers Warned I'd Die If I Was Hit'

'Sobers Warned I'd Die If I Was Hit'

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

'Maybe Sobers was upset that he could not touch Gavaskar, and when he came out to bat, he got dismissed off the first ball by me.'

India's West Asia Trade Contracts for Second Month Amid Shipping Disruptions

India's West Asia Trade Contracts for Second Month Amid Shipping Disruptions

Rediff.com15 May 2026

India's trade with West Asia saw a significant decline of over 28% in April, marking the second consecutive month of contraction. This downturn is attributed to severe shipping disruptions stemming from the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, particularly impacting the crucial Strait of Hormuz waterway.

The MBBS Costs You Don't See Till It's Too Late

The MBBS Costs You Don't See Till It's Too Late

Rediff.com6 days ago

Be aware of a set of costs that never appears on a college's fee page. They sit as clauses near the end of the state counselling body's prospectus and, in many states, not even there, warns Ashok Hegde, founder, neet2seat.

Chhoti SIP Growth Faces High Exit Rates

Chhoti SIP Growth Faces High Exit Rates

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

'Periods of heightened volatility, driven by global events such as tariffs and geopolitical tensions over the past year-and-a-half, can make some investors pause or discontinue their investments.'