Search results for 'Congress'

TN govt revokes controversial RTI move amid backlash

TN govt revokes controversial RTI move amid backlash

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

The Tamil Nadu government revoked a controversial order exempting its Public (Law and Order) Department from the RTI Act, 2005.

Top Maha poll official seeks more powers for EROs in SIR

Top Maha poll official seeks more powers for EROs in SIR

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Maharashtra's Chief Electoral Officer has formally requested the Election Commission to modify the ECINet software, seeking greater discretion for Electoral Registration Officers in addressing over 2 crore voter discrepancies.

Ericsson CEO Stresses Tech Alignment For AI Security

Ericsson CEO Stresses Tech Alignment For AI Security

Rediff.com5 days ago

Ericsson CEO Andres Vicente emphasised the critical need for technology alignment and ecosystem collaboration to ensure security in the age of Artificial Intelligence. Speaking on Wednesday, he highlighted that AI's benefits in productivity and innovation cannot be forgone, making shared security concerns across interconnected tech layers paramount. Ericsson is actively working with partners through the Trusted Tech Alliance to establish common AI-era security understandings.

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

Rediff.com1 days ago

Opposition parties, led by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, plan to march to the Supreme Court on Monday to meet the Chief Justice of India. They aim to submit a memorandum regarding alleged 'vote chori' and demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, halting of SIR, and a return to paper ballots. The protest follows widespread detentions during previous demonstrations, which the opposition condemns as an assault on democracy.

Dipke's Dilemma: To Z Or Not To Z

Dipke's Dilemma: To Z Or Not To Z

Rediff.com7 days ago

How long can the Cockroach Janta Party remain an agitationist force? asks Saisuresh Sivaswamy.

Punjab CM Mann Alleges BJP Election Campaign Behind CBI Raids

Punjab CM Mann Alleges BJP Election Campaign Behind CBI Raids

Rediff.com4 days ago

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticised the CBI raids on his OSD and others, alleging it's part of the BJP's election campaign strategy in non-BJP ruled states. The CBI registered a corruption case following directions from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which noted prima facie evidence of corruption. Mann dismissed the allegations, stating his government is not involved in corruption and will cooperate with investigations.

CISF jawan stabbed during protest against CEC in Delhi

CISF jawan stabbed during protest against CEC in Delhi

Rediff.com6 days ago

A Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) jawan was reportedly stabbed during a protest in New Delhi. The Delhi Police have initiated legal action and are investigating the incident, with the injured jawan receiving medical attention.

UN flags mass detentions during Delhi stir, calls for protesters' release

UN flags mass detentions during Delhi stir, calls for protesters' release

Rediff.com1 days ago

The UN human rights office expressed concern over mass detentions during protests in Delhi on Saturday, urging India to respect peaceful assembly rights and release detainees. India rejected these concerns as "misplaced" and "unwarranted interference." The protests, organised by the Gen Z-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), demanded electoral reforms and the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar over alleged voter list manipulation, which the Election Commission and BJP deny.

Sena (UBT) Demands CBI Probe Into Pradeep Purnekar's Murder Amid Political Row

Sena (UBT) Demands CBI Probe Into Pradeep Purnekar's Murder Amid Political Row

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sushma Andhare has called for a CBI probe into the murder of party leader Pradeep Purnekar in Thane, alleging it was a contract killing and citing potential political pressure on local police. Opposition parties have also announced a protest march to the Thane police commissioner's office, while Shiv Sena MP Jyoti Waghmare accused opposition leaders of politicising the tragedy. Police have made arrests in connection with the murder.

Four former CMs among many INDIA bloc leaders detained in Delhi

Four former CMs among many INDIA bloc leaders detained in Delhi

Rediff.com2 days ago

Several prominent INDIA bloc leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Mamata Banerjee, were detained by Delhi Police on Saturday while attempting to protest at Jantar Mantar. They were demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls, with leaders condemning the detentions as an attack on democracy.

System can't be honest only...: 124 ex-officers support EC, SIR

System can't be honest only...: 124 ex-officers support EC, SIR

Rediff.com2 days ago

A group of 124 former IAS, IFS, IPS, and allied services officers have issued an open letter defending the Election Commission (EC) and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. They argue that the electoral system cannot be deemed rigged only when a party loses, citing instances where the ruling BJP lost elections under the same EC. The officers highlight the legitimacy and necessity of the SIR for cleaning voter rolls and underscore the robust safeguards within India's electoral system.

Is Amarinder Singh quitting BJP to rejoin Cong? He says...

Is Amarinder Singh quitting BJP to rejoin Cong? He says...

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh clarified his stance on his political future and loyalty to the BJP, stating it is his duty to voice his feelings about Punjab to the party, but this does not imply he is quitting. He also reflected on his long political career and the current "difficult times" while attending a book launch.

BJP slams Congress's 'double standards' for disrupting Parliament

BJP slams Congress's 'double standards' for disrupting Parliament

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The BJP has accused the Congress and its INDIA bloc allies of deliberately disrupting the Monsoon Session of Parliament, alleging that their conduct has prevented discussions on key Bills and exposed the Opposition's 'double standards' on issues such as paper leaks and student protests.

111 MPs, MLAs changed parties after winning elections since 2022: ADR

111 MPs, MLAs changed parties after winning elections since 2022: ADR

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

An analysis by ADR and National Election Watch reveals that 111 MPs and MLAs changed parties after winning elections between 2022 and 2026. Nagaland and West Bengal recorded the highest number of switches. The report also highlights party-level impacts and suggests reforms to the anti-defection framework.

EC-SIR row: INDIA bloc to meet on Sep 30, plans joint stir for CEC removal

EC-SIR row: INDIA bloc to meet on Sep 30, plans joint stir for CEC removal

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The INDIA bloc is set to convene on September 30 in New Delhi to formulate a unified strategy regarding the Election Commission, focusing on the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and concerns over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The meeting will also address coordinated protests and the CEC selection process, bringing together diverse opposition parties.

How Delhi turned into a fortress to thwart CJP's anti-CEC stir

How Delhi turned into a fortress to thwart CJP's anti-CEC stir

Rediff.com2 days ago

A planned protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged voter-list manipulation, was thwarted by a massive security deployment in Delhi on Saturday. Thousands of protesters were detained as they attempted to gather at various alternative locations across the city, with metro services suspended and mobile internet blocked in some areas.

Opposition To March In Thane After Shiv Sena Leader's Murder

Opposition To March In Thane After Shiv Sena Leader's Murder

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Opposition parties in Thane, including Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), and MNS, have announced a protest march to the Police Commissionerate on October 9. This demonstration is in response to the deteriorating law and order situation following the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar. Police have made arrests in the case, and the victim's son has accused a rival Shiv Sena leader of involvement.

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Cong alleges Haryana police detained 18 party-backed Raj councillors

Cong alleges Haryana police detained 18 party-backed Raj councillors

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Congress leaders have accused the Haryana Police of illegally detaining 18 municipal councillors from Rajasthan's Tijara in Panchkula, allegedly to prevent them from voting in a crucial municipal council chairperson election. While police deny the claims, Congress has staged protests, calling the incident a "murder of democracy" and demanding a high-level inquiry into the alleged political interference.

Police Probe Murder Of Retired IAS Officer In Bhopal, Househelp Suspected

Police Probe Murder Of Retired IAS Officer In Bhopal, Househelp Suspected

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A 70-year-old retired IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his home in Bhopal. Police suspect his househelp, who has been missing since the incident. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has condemned the killing and assured swift action, while the opposition has criticised the state's law and order situation.

'They will improve' after Uruguay thrashing: AIFF boss

'They will improve' after Uruguay thrashing: AIFF boss

Rediff.com5 days ago

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey and West Bengal Minister Indranil Khan offered their perspectives on the Indian football team's 6-1 defeat against Uruguay. Chaubey highlighted the team's strong start and confidence, suggesting rain disrupted momentum, and stressed the importance of playing top-level opposition. Khan called the match a landmark moment for Indian football exposure but also criticised political interference in West Bengal's football ecosystem.

Three Get Death, One Life Imprisonment For Policeman's Family Murder

Three Get Death, One Life Imprisonment For Policeman's Family Murder

Rediff.com4 days ago

A Fast Track Court in Surajpur, Chhattisgarh, has sentenced three men to death and one to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of a policeman's wife and their 11-year-old daughter in 2024, a case that also involved sexual assault.

Modi Calls For Democratisation Of Technology For Global South

Modi Calls For Democratisation Of Technology For Global South

Rediff.com6 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the democratisation of technology to ensure no section of society is left behind, advocating for affordable and accessible digital services, especially for the Global South. He highlighted the potential of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and called for solutions to cyber fraud, global standards for emerging tech, and mechanisms to identify AI-generated content during his interaction with GSMA board members.

'Does India Belong to Gyanesh Kumar's Father?'

'Does India Belong to Gyanesh Kumar's Father?'

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Amid sweltering October heat in Mumbai, Uddhav Thackeray turns up the heat against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, hinting obliquely about Nuremberg-like trials once the wheels of electoral fortune change.

HC seeks Centre's reply on always-on bodycams for cops, RAF during protests

HC seeks Centre's reply on always-on bodycams for cops, RAF during protests

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Delhi High Court has directed the Centre to consider a representation for standard operating procedures (SOPs) regarding the mandatory use of 'always-on' body-worn cameras by police and Rapid Action Force personnel during crowd control and protest management. The court asked the government to respond within six months, emphasising accountability in situations involving allegations of excessive force.

Mamata faction reveals new symbol for upcoming bypolls

Mamata faction reveals new symbol for upcoming bypolls

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress has unveiled a new logo featuring a football player as its interim election symbol. This move comes after the Election Commission froze the party's original name and symbol due to an internal dispute. The new symbol, along with the name 'Mamata All India Trinamool Congress', will be used in the upcoming October 6 bypolls, with the faction actively publicising it to familiarise voters.

Comedian Pulkit Mani cancels UP shows amid Modi mimicry row

Comedian Pulkit Mani cancels UP shows amid Modi mimicry row

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Comedian Pulkit Mani's stand-up shows in Noida, Lucknow, and Kanpur have been cancelled following "repeated threats from goon activists." This comes after he performed a mimicry of Prime Minister Modi alongside Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at an event in Indore, sparking significant controversy and criticism from the BJP. Mani has since reported receiving hate messages online.

'Fight won't be easy': CJP gears up for anti-Gyanesh Kumar protest

'Fight won't be easy': CJP gears up for anti-Gyanesh Kumar protest

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and various student organisations have called for a united protest on October 10 against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They demand his resignation and an overhaul of the electoral system, describing the confrontation as a fight for democracy against the BJP. The groups are seeking to sustain street pressure, following a previous agitation that led to a minister's resignation.

'Baghel go back' chants disrupt Punjab Congress meet as crisis deepens

'Baghel go back' chants disrupt Punjab Congress meet as crisis deepens

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

An organisational meeting of the Punjab Congress in Ludhiana, aimed at preparing for the 2027 assembly elections, was marred by protests and "go back" slogans against senior leaders Bhupesh Baghel and Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, highlighting the party's persistent internal divisions.

Permission denied for Jantar Mantar protest against CEC

Permission denied for Jantar Mantar protest against CEC

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Delhi Police has denied permission for a protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, leading to the closure of 11 metro stations and heightened security. Various political parties and student unions are demanding Kumar's resignation over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.

I love swimming in sea when it's rough: Rahul's cryptic post amid EC row

I love swimming in sea when it's rough: Rahul's cryptic post amid EC row

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Rahul Gandhi made a cryptic social media post about swimming in rough seas, which coincided with a political controversy surrounding alleged irregularities within the Election Commission. A report by The Indian Express highlighted that two Election Commissioners had repeatedly questioned decisions regarding electoral roll revisions, a matter Gandhi had previously raised as "vote chori."

Cong refuses to withdraw Nandigram candidate despite arrest

Cong refuses to withdraw Nandigram candidate despite arrest

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

AICC general secretary K C Venugopal announced that the Congress would not withdraw its candidate Milan Pradhan from the Nandigram Assembly bypoll in West Bengal, despite his recent arrest. Pradhan was apprehended in connection with a 2007 anti-land acquisition movement case, shortly after the Trinamool Congress extended its support to him. Venugopal alleged political pressure and questioned the Election Commission's silence, vowing to elevate the issue to a national level.

Ex-TMC Rajya Sabha MP Koyel Mallick joins BJP

Ex-TMC Rajya Sabha MP Koyel Mallick joins BJP

Rediff.com7 days ago

Bengali film actor Koyel Mallick, previously a TMC MP, has joined the BJP and is set to file her nomination for a Rajya Sabha seat, expressing her desire to contribute to West Bengal's development initiatives.

Why Do We Need Permission to Protest Against the Government?

Why Do We Need Permission to Protest Against the Government?

Rediff.com2 days ago

Before protesting against the State, the citizen should not have to ask: Sir, may I protest, please?, asserts Prem Panicker.

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Rediff.com7 days ago

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively courting Sri Lanka's Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), a Marxist party with strong Sinhalese nationalist roots, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations despite ideological differences. This engagement, highlighted by a recent high-profile visit by JVP leader Tilvin Silva, aims to foster cooperation on economic projects and address New Delhi's concerns over slow progress in India-aided initiatives in the island nation.

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Congress's Nandigram bypoll candidate Milan Pradhan has been sent to judicial custody until October 3 on charges dating back 19 years, effectively ending his campaign for the October 6 by-election.

Sahil Wakode's parents begin hunger strike, IIT-B defers exams

Sahil Wakode's parents begin hunger strike, IIT-B defers exams

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The parents of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode, who allegedly died by suicide, have begun a hunger strike demanding action against those they accuse of tormenting their son due to caste discrimination. The institute has deferred mid-semester examinations and reissued an apology for an earlier statement regarding the circumstances of his death.

'Kala Pani is appropriate punishment for CEC Gyanesh Kumar': Cong MP

'Kala Pani is appropriate punishment for CEC Gyanesh Kumar': Cong MP

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat on Saturday demanded punishment for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid an ongoing political row over the SIR exercise, declaring that "Kala Pani" is the appropriate punishment for Kumar based on the magnitude of his position and the alleged gravity of his misconduct.