Search results for 'Minister of State'

CPI(M) Accuses UDF Of Colluding With BJP Over ED Probe

CPI(M) Accuses UDF Of Colluding With BJP Over ED Probe

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The CPI(M) has strongly criticised the UDF government in Keralam for ordering a police inquiry into an alleged bribery case involving former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter, and son-in-law, based on an Enforcement Directorate report. The party alleges political targeting and a nexus between the UDF and the BJP-led Centre.

MLAs who come to Bengaluru have two marriages: Shivakumar sparks row

MLAs who come to Bengaluru have two marriages: Shivakumar sparks row

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar's comment in the Assembly that a dozen MLAs have two marriages has ignited a political controversy. BJP leaders are demanding that he disclose the names of these legislators, arguing that such remarks undermine the dignity of the Assembly and create public distrust.

Punjab CM Mann To Witness Asian Games Hockey Finals In Japan

Punjab CM Mann To Witness Asian Games Hockey Finals In Japan

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and a state delegation have been invited by the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) to witness the semi-finals and finals of the Asian Games hockey competitions in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. This invitation is significant as Punjab is set to host the men's Asian Champions Trophy 2026, with the experience gained in Japan expected to aid in organising future international sporting events in the state.

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India desires positive, constructive, and forward-looking ties with Bangladesh and is ready to discuss all bilateral issues. This comes amidst queries regarding the state of relations following a change in Bangladesh's government and upcoming international engagements.

Rashtrapati Bhavan rolls out all-veg Kashmiri banquet for Swiss president

Rashtrapati Bhavan rolls out all-veg Kashmiri banquet for Swiss president

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

President Droupadi Murmu hosted Swiss President Guy Parmelin at a banquet featuring exquisite delicacies from Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The curated menu highlighted unique regional ingredients and culinary traditions, serving as a cultural exchange alongside significant bilateral discussions on trade, migration, nuclear energy, and defence.

Congress's Nandigram bypoll candidate gets bail, can campaign

Congress's Nandigram bypoll candidate gets bail, can campaign

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Calcutta High Court has granted interim bail to Congress candidate Milan Pradhan, allowing him to campaign for the upcoming Nandigram bypoll. Pradhan, arrested on September 18 in connection with six criminal cases from 2007, received relief until October 20, with directions to surrender on October 21 and deposit bail bonds. The cases relate to charges including murder and Arms Act violations during the Nandigram anti-land acquisition movement.

Delhi Government Boosts Winter Air Pollution Combat With IIT-Delhi Partnership And EV Sweepers

Delhi Government Boosts Winter Air Pollution Combat With IIT-Delhi Partnership And EV Sweepers

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Delhi government has approved real-time monitoring of PM2.5 and PM10 sources in collaboration with IIT-Delhi and the procurement of 30 EV-based mechanical road sweepers to combat winter air pollution. These measures aim to strengthen ground-level dust removal and scientifically identify pollution sources throughout the year.

Flydubai cockpit stabbing a 'dangerous terror act': UAE official

Flydubai cockpit stabbing a 'dangerous terror act': UAE official

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

In a major disclosure, Anwar Gargash, an adviser to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, has officially termed the cockpit attack aboard a Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai flight a "dangerous terrorist act," marking the first time a top Emirati official has formally classified the attempted crash in such terms.

Ujjain tense as mosque demolition row sparks protest; 15 detained, 7 booked

Ujjain tense as mosque demolition row sparks protest; 15 detained, 7 booked

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Police in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, used tear gas to disperse protesters demonstrating against the proposed demolition of a portion of the Shahi Masjid for a road-widening project. The project is aimed at easing pilgrim movement for Simhastha Kumbh 2028, and despite initial protests, local authorities and the city Qazi claim the issue was resolved through mutual consent, with the Chief Minister also setting an example by demolishing part of his ancestral home.

'True hero who prevented a disaster': Israel heaps praise on Capt Machchhar

'True hero who prevented a disaster': Israel heaps praise on Capt Machchhar

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has been hailed as a hero by Israeli leaders for his extraordinary bravery in thwarting an alleged mid-air attack by his co-pilot on a flydubai flight. Despite being stabbed and seriously injured, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower the attacker and prevent a catastrophic disaster. The flight, carrying 174 passengers, safely landed in Saudi Arabia, and Machchhar is recovering.

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.

Punjabi influencer Mad Sandhu shot dead in Amritsar

Punjabi influencer Mad Sandhu shot dead in Amritsar

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Punjabi social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu was shot dead by two unidentified persons in Amritsar. The incident occurred on Loharka road, and Sandhu succumbed to his injuries at a hospital. Police are investigating the motive, and the murder has drawn criticism from Congress leader Raj Kumar Verka regarding the state's law and order.

Formula E Case: ACB Seeks Passports Of KTR, Others

Formula E Case: ACB Seeks Passports Of KTR, Others

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Anti-Corruption Bureau has petitioned a court in Hyderabad to direct BRS Working President K T Rama Rao and three other accused in the Formula E race case to surrender their passports, amidst an ongoing probe into alleged financial irregularities.

Envoy reveals why US rejected Iran's Hormuz offer

Envoy reveals why US rejected Iran's Hormuz offer

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The US rejected Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, citing Tehran's demands for sanctions relief and access to frozen assets before nuclear program negotiations. US Ambassador Mike Waltz called the offer a "cynical attempt," while Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi disputed Waltz's account and reiterated Iran's readiness for both diplomacy and renewed hostilities. President Trump expressed confidence in winning the conflict soon and keeping all options, including military strikes, on the table, with denying Iran a nuclear weapon as the primary objective.

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'93 lakhs deletions in Bengal, 96 lakhs in Tamil Nadu, 24 lakhs in Kerala, 77 lakhs in Gujarat, 45 lakhs in Madhya Pradesh, 44 lakhs in Rajasthan. 2.89 crores in Uttar Pradesh. Nearly 3 crores!'

Flydubai incident: What happened inside the cockpit

Flydubai incident: What happened inside the cockpit

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

An Indian captain on a Flydubai flight heroically prevented a co-pilot from crashing the plane en route to Tel Aviv. The co-pilot, allegedly radicalized, attacked Captain Smit Machchhar, who managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and off-duty aviators to subdue the assailant and make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Investigations are ongoing, with Israeli and UAE authorities involved.

Plumber who never flew a plane steadied flydubai jet: Trump

Plumber who never flew a plane steadied flydubai jet: Trump

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

US President Donald Trump recounted an unconfirmed story about a flydubai flight where an Indian pilot, Smit Machchhar, fought off a knife attack from a co-pilot attempting to crash the aircraft. Trump also detailed a dramatic intervention by an Israeli plumber-passenger who helped subdue the co-pilot, learning flying basics from a TV show. Trump stressed that he was merely relaying an account from Israeli PM Netanyahu, not independently confirmed facts.

Flyers recall how Capt Machchhar fought back despite stabbing

Flyers recall how Capt Machchhar fought back despite stabbing

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

An Indian pilot and several passengers are being hailed as heroes after thwarting a co-pilot's alleged attempt to crash a flydubai flight en route to Tel Aviv. The incident involved a mid-air struggle, a rapid descent, and an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, with international leaders praising the bravery that saved 174 lives.

Defence Minister Praises Armed Forces Athletes As 'Soldier And Champion' Blend

Defence Minister Praises Armed Forces Athletes As 'Soldier And Champion' Blend

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded armed forces athletes for their medal-winning performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games, calling them a 'perfect blend of a soldier and a champion'. He highlighted their strong willpower and the inspiration they provide to the nation, especially the youth. Indian Army athletes secured 16 medals, including 8 gold, contributing significantly to India's overall tally.

Watch: UN delegates walk out of Netanyahu speech

Watch: UN delegates walk out of Netanyahu speech

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised delegates who walked out of the United Nations General Assembly during his speech, labelling them 'moral cowards.' He also addressed rising antisemitism and accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of fostering an unsafe environment for Jewish residents.

Cockroaches from across India will march to Delhi on Oct 10 if...: Dipke warns CEC

Cockroaches from across India will march to Delhi on Oct 10 if...: Dipke warns CEC

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) led a large protest in Mumbai, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke announced a further protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on October 10 if Kumar does not step down, citing alleged voter deletions and irregularities in recent elections. The protest, which saw participation from various activists and public figures, also called for freezing voter lists and abolishing the 2023 law on Election Commissioner appointments.

Fire in Telangana hospital's newborn unit kills three infants

Fire in Telangana hospital's newborn unit kills three infants

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Three infants tragically died after a fire erupted in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the state-run RIMS hospital in Adilabad, Telangana. A preliminary inquiry suggests a short circuit in the air-conditioning unit caused the blaze, leading to thick smoke. State Health Minister C Damodar Rajanarasimha has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident, promising strict action against any negligence.

India Unites In Prayer For Hero Pilot Smit Machchhar

India Unites In Prayer For Hero Pilot Smit Machchhar

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

BJP leaders and devotees across India are performing pujas and havans for the speedy recovery of Captain Smit Machchhar, who was stabbed while thwarting an alleged attempt to crash a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. Temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Kedarnath, and Somnath are holding special rituals, honouring his courage in saving 174 lives.

Amit Shah suffers food poisoning, skips Karnataka event

Amit Shah suffers food poisoning, skips Karnataka event

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah experienced food poisoning during his visit to Karnataka, leading to the cancellation of his scheduled events in Hubballi and Belagavi. Senior BJP leader Pralhad Joshi confirmed Shah's illness but stated he is now "perfect" after suffering weakness from vomiting.

Thane Celebrates Shooter Rudrankksh Patil's Asian Games Success

Thane Celebrates Shooter Rudrankksh Patil's Asian Games Success

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Indian sport shooter Rudrankksh Patil, a multiple medallist at the ongoing Asian Games, was given a grand civic reception in his hometown of Thane. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde praised his achievements, which include bronze and silver medals at the recent games, and highlighted his inspiring journey for young athletes. The article also notes his past and future successes, including a silver at the 2026 Asian Games.

After Jamui, 2 more molestation cases reported from Bihar

After Jamui, 2 more molestation cases reported from Bihar

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Following the horrific Jamui molestation case, new incidents of harassment have been reported in Bihar's Samastipur and Muzaffarpur districts, leading to five arrests and prompting strong criticism from opposition leaders against the BJP-led NDA government over the state's law and order situation.

Fighter jets were called in for rescue: Israeli envoy on flydubai incident

Fighter jets were called in for rescue: Israeli envoy on flydubai incident

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Israeli envoy Reuven Azar praised Indian Captain Smit Machchhar for foiling an alleged co-pilot's attempt to crash a flydubai plane en route to Tel Aviv. Azar detailed Israel's immediate response, including scrambling fighter jets, and highlighted the combined efforts of the captain, Israeli passengers, and crew in ensuring a safe landing in Saudi Arabia, saving nearly 180 lives.

India Celebrates First-Ever Asian Games Pole Vault Medal

India Celebrates First-Ever Asian Games Pole Vault Medal

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Baranica Elangovan has made history by winning India's first-ever medal in the women's pole vault at the Asian Games, securing a bronze with a clearance of 4.15m. Her achievement, despite being below her personal best, marks a significant milestone for Indian athletics and follows a challenging recovery from an ACL injury.

Finance Minister Explains MDR Impact On Digital Payments

Finance Minister Explains MDR Impact On Digital Payments

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on digital transactions applies to merchants, not customers, and aims to support banks and fintech in infrastructure investment. She countered Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's claims, stating that a committee will decide on MDR only after Parliament passes the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, a process currently stalled by parliamentary disruptions.

Governor Varma Champions Bamboo For Sustainable Growth

Governor Varma Champions Bamboo For Sustainable Growth

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma has advocated for a bamboo-based economy to drive sustainable development, create rural livelihoods, and offer green alternatives to plastic. Speaking at a summit, he highlighted bamboo's crucial role in climate change mitigation, its potential to empower local communities, and its benefits for farmers.

Super League Kerala Season 3 Kicks Off With Ticket Launch

Super League Kerala Season 3 Kicks Off With Ticket Launch

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Ticket sales for the third season of the Super League Kerala have commenced, with the inaugural ticket presented to Chief Minister V D Satheesan. The tournament is set to begin on September 25, featuring defending champions Kannur Warriors FC against last season's runners-up Thrissur Magic FC in the opening match. Fans can purchase tickets online and season passes for club home matches.

Bihar cops begin probe as more molestation videos emerge

Bihar cops begin probe as more molestation videos emerge

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Bihar police are investigating multiple past incidents of molestation and moral policing across several districts, including Kishanganj, Banka, and Samastipur, following recent public outrage. These cases, some months or even a year old, involve vigilante groups harassing individuals, often for inter-faith interactions, and have led to arrests and significant political controversy.

Shah Hails Indian Women's Cricket Team For Asian Games Gold

Shah Hails Indian Women's Cricket Team For Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah congratulated the Indian women's cricket team for winning the gold medal at the Asian Games. Shah praised their "bedazzling" performance and "unmatched cricketing prowess" after they defeated Sri Lanka by 147 runs in the final held in Japan.

Delhi Court To Rehear Arguments In Lalu Yadav Land-For-Jobs Money Laundering Case

Delhi Court To Rehear Arguments In Lalu Yadav Land-For-Jobs Money Laundering Case

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A Delhi court is set to rehear arguments on charges against RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav and others in a money laundering case linked to the railways land-for-jobs scam. The case, investigated by the Enforcement Directorate, alleges that land was transferred as bribes for railway jobs during Yadav's tenure as Railway Minister. The proceedings are restarting after a previous judge was transferred.

Karnataka assembly rejects Kasturirangan report on Western Ghats

Karnataka assembly rejects Kasturirangan report on Western Ghats

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Karnataka Assembly has passed a resolution rejecting the K Kasturirangan report on Western Ghats conservation in its current form. The state government urged the Centre to address deficiencies, particularly concerning the inclusion of agricultural lands and human settlements in Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) without proper physical surveys or livelihood support.

Key Accomplice Arrested In Major Counterfeit Drug Racket

Key Accomplice Arrested In Major Counterfeit Drug Racket

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Police in Bengaluru have arrested Balasubramanian, a partner in DM Pharma, in connection with an interstate counterfeit drug racket. This arrest follows the apprehension of alleged kingpin Prashanth Rajan Babu. The Special Investigation Team is probing the supply chain, financial transactions, and distribution channels of fake medicines worth nearly Rs 5 crore, which were being relabelled as premium brands.

Karnataka CM Unveils KEONICS' Vision For Tech-Driven Future

Karnataka CM Unveils KEONICS' Vision For Tech-Driven Future

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar lauded KEONICS' initiative to provide AI-based KEO computers to rural children, marking the institution's golden jubilee. The KEO computers, developed in Karnataka, aim to bridge the digital divide. Shivakumar also highlighted government efforts to promote IT beyond Bengaluru, enhance industry-oriented skills, and digitise property records, emphasising the state's commitment to technology and skill development.

Meenakshi Shinde Dismisses Baseless Allegations In Purnekar Murder Case

Meenakshi Shinde Dismisses Baseless Allegations In Purnekar Murder Case

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Former Thane mayor Meenakshi Shinde has vehemently denied any involvement in the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar, dismissing accusations made by the victim's son and opposition leaders as baseless. Shinde called for an impartial police investigation and expressed her readiness to cooperate, while also cautioning against political mudslinging. The police have formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the murder, which has also drawn criticism from Thane MP Naresh Mhaske against Sena (UBT) leaders for politicising the incident.

Goyal, USTR To Meet Amid Tariff Heat

Goyal, USTR To Meet Amid Tariff Heat

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

'We expect the Indian delegation to flag New Delhi's worries and elaborate on its standpoint on the Russia-linked tariff as well as the Section 301 investigation into overcapacity.'

GST Council To Review Tax On UPI Merchant Fees

GST Council To Review Tax On UPI Merchant Fees

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The GST Council is set to discuss the application of GST on merchant fees for UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000. This comes as a new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) of 0.4% (capped at Rs 300) is effective from October 15 for such transactions, which, as a service, would typically attract an 18% GST levy. The Council's decision is anticipated to consider consumer interests, with merchants potentially able to claim Input Tax Credit.