News for 'Assistant Secretary of State'

Big verdict: No RTI for BCCI, rules CIC

Big verdict: No RTI for BCCI, rules CIC

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The Central Information Commission has ruled that the Board of Control for Cricket in India does not qualify as a 'public authority' under the Right to Information Act, effectively placing it outside the scope of RTI disclosures.

Mishandling Taiwan issue could spark China-US clash, Xi Jinping warns Trump

Mishandling Taiwan issue could spark China-US clash, Xi Jinping warns Trump

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping warned US President Donald Trump that mishandling the Taiwan issue could trigger conflicts between the two countries during wide-ranging talks on trade, Iran, and energy security.

US urges citizens to leave 12 Middle East nations; 6 American troops killed

US urges citizens to leave 12 Middle East nations; 6 American troops killed

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged its citizens to immediately depart from several Middle Eastern countries, citing "serious safety risks."

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises In Bengal Poll Rally

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises In Bengal Poll Rally

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised the BJP for not fulfilling its promises, highlighting the continuation of West Bengal's welfare schemes and challenging the BJP to implement similar initiatives in their ruled states.

CM Vijay resigns from Tiruchurapalli East seat, retains Perambur

CM Vijay resigns from Tiruchurapalli East seat, retains Perambur

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Before assuming office as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Vijay submitted his resignation letter from the post of member of the legislative assembly representing the Tiruchirappalli East constituency.

Haryana Rights Body Concerned Over Nuh School Conditions

Haryana Rights Body Concerned Over Nuh School Conditions

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Haryana Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the alarming conditions in government primary schools in Nuh district, citing violations of children's rights to education, health, and dignified living.

Enforcement Directorate Intensifies Probe in West Bengal Teachers' Scam

Enforcement Directorate Intensifies Probe in West Bengal Teachers' Scam

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted fresh searches against former West Bengal education minister Partha Chatterjee and others as part of a money laundering investigation into an alleged teachers recruitment scam.

Trump unlikely to accept Iran's peace plan to end war: Report

Trump unlikely to accept Iran's peace plan to end war: Report

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump is inclined to reject Iran's latest diplomatic proposal, which suggests restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz while deferring nuclear programme concerns, according to CNN. Concerns remain over Iran's nuclear enrichment and internal government fractures.

Fifth Arrest In Odisha Lynching Case; Victims Want Release Of Accused

Fifth Arrest In Odisha Lynching Case; Victims Want Release Of Accused

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Police in Odisha have made a fifth arrest in connection with the lynching of a man accused of attempted sexual assault. The victims, however, are requesting the release of those arrested, claiming they saved their lives.

The Suvendu Adhikari You Must Know

The Suvendu Adhikari You Must Know

Rediff.com14 May 2026

'When I asked Suvendu about the news that Didi was going to fight in his constituency, he said, 'Aami okhaney lorbo aar okhaney okey harabo (I will contest from there and defeat her there)' This was his comment while we were standing on the truck doing our roadshow.'

Why Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises

Why Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised the BJP for not fulfilling its promises, highlighting the continuation of West Bengal's welfare schemes and challenging the BJP to match them in their ruled states.

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar are actively engaged with world leaders to promote dialogue and diplomacy for peace in West Asia, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the region.

Telangana Police To Focus On Cyber Crime, Road Safety

Telangana Police To Focus On Cyber Crime, Road Safety

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Telangana's newly appointed DGP C V Anand announced that the state police will implement measures to address cyber crimes, drug issues, and road accidents, involving district-level officials. He also mentioned reviewing the phone-tapping case linked to the previous BRS regime and prioritising rehabilitation programmes for surrendered Naxals.

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised the BJP for not fulfilling its promises to the people of West Bengal, highlighting the success and continuation of the state's 'Lakshmir Bhandar' scheme.

Trump briefed on new military options, says Iran 'dying for a deal'

Trump briefed on new military options, says Iran 'dying for a deal'

Rediff.com1 May 2026

President Trump has been briefed on potential military actions against Iran, including strikes on infrastructure and control of the Strait of Hormuz, even as negotiations continue. He maintains economic pressure is the primary strategy, while legal questions arise over war powers.

BJP Stages Protest in Amritsar, Demands CBI Probe into Warehousing Official's Suicide

BJP Stages Protest in Amritsar, Demands CBI Probe into Warehousing Official's Suicide

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Punjab BJP staged a protest in Amritsar against the AAP government, demanding a CBI probe into the suicide of a warehousing corporation official and justice for his family.

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A special audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has revealed that Odisha's forest and environment department sidestepped central guidelines, procuring and customising Mahindra Thar SUVs worth 17 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for forest protection, despite the funds being earmarked for 'preparedness and capacity building'.

Banerjee Accuses BJP of Religious Division and Unfulfilled Promises

Banerjee Accuses BJP of Religious Division and Unfulfilled Promises

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised the BJP over the proposed Uniform Civil Code and the delay in recognising the Kurmali language, accusing the party of dividing people and making false promises.

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP is showing strong leads in West Bengal and Assam, while actor Vijay's party is making a significant debut in Tamil Nadu. The Congress is ahead in Kerala, offering some consolation amid the changing political landscape in the state elections.

Jewish men stabbed near London synagogue; police probe terror link

Jewish men stabbed near London synagogue; police probe terror link

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Two Jewish men were stabbed near a synagogue in north-west London, in an attack declared by police as a 'terrorist' incident. A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Kerala's voters are sophisticated, educated, and unforgiving. They have once again made it clear that no government is entitled to remain in power. The Congress would do well to remember this, points out Ramesh Menon.

Why London Synagogue Stabbing Is Being Treated As Terror

Why London Synagogue Stabbing Is Being Treated As Terror

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

A stabbing incident near a synagogue in north-west London, which left two Jewish men injured, has been declared a terrorist incident by UK counter-terror police. A 45-year-old man is in custody as authorities investigate whether the Jewish community was deliberately targeted.

13 killed in blast at fireworks unit ahead of Thrissur Pooram

13 killed in blast at fireworks unit ahead of Thrissur Pooram

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

A devastating explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Thrissur, Kerala, has resulted in at least 13 fatalities and numerous injuries. The incident occurred as the unit was preparing crackers for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram festival.

Kerala parents plead for son's return from Iranian ship amid West Asia conflict

Kerala parents plead for son's return from Iranian ship amid West Asia conflict

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The parents of Jerin George, a native of Haripad in Kerala, have appealed to authorities to help bring their son home after he became stranded on an Iranian ship due to the conflict in West Asia.

Ex-Speaker Mahara Implicated in Nepal Gold Smuggling Scandal

Ex-Speaker Mahara Implicated in Nepal Gold Smuggling Scandal

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Nepal's former parliament speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara and others have been accused of facilitating gold smuggling, leading to a corruption case filed by the CIAA.

How AI Can Empower Women Journalists In India

How AI Can Empower Women Journalists In India

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Brijesh Singh, Principal Secretary (Information and Publicity), Maharashtra, highlighted the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in journalism and encouraged women journalists to embrace this technological shift to enhance their skills and drive positive change.

Abhishek Banerjee: TMC Vote Only Way To Stop BJP

Abhishek Banerjee: TMC Vote Only Way To Stop BJP

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged voters to support the TMC as the only way to defeat the BJP, particularly in areas with a strong Congress base. He accused the BJP of dividing communities and failing to address key issues such as river erosion and farmer distress, while outlining the TMC's welfare plans.

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

The decision marks a significant leadership transition as the administration seeks a commander who 'will implement Donald Trump and Hegseth's vision for the Army'.

Tamil Nadu poll campaign ends, voting on Thursday

Tamil Nadu poll campaign ends, voting on Thursday

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The high-intensity election campaign in Tamil Nadu concluded with accusations and counter-accusations between the DMK and AIADMK, while new entrant TVK made its presence felt. Key issues included state autonomy, corruption, law and order, and the delimitation bill.

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Neglecting Balurghat Despite 'Double-Engine' Government

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Neglecting Balurghat Despite 'Double-Engine' Government

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised the BJP's development record in Balurghat, alleging neglect despite the constituency having a BJP MP and MLA. He challenged the BJP to present a report card of their work and compared it unfavourably to the TMC government's initiatives.

Why Abhishek Banerjee Is Calling For TMC Votes In Murshidabad

Why Abhishek Banerjee Is Calling For TMC Votes In Murshidabad

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee is urging voters in Murshidabad to support the TMC to thwart the BJP's influence in West Bengal. He criticised the Congress and other parties, accusing them of indirectly supporting the BJP, and highlighted the TMC's commitment to protecting minority voters and preventing the implementation of NRC in Bengal.

'Ready to Take the Risk': Inside Congress's Vijay Bet

'Ready to Take the Risk': Inside Congress's Vijay Bet

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Whether Vijay has the political spine to stitch together a stable government from this patchwork of conditions, demands, and midnight drama is the question Tamil Nadu is living through right now.

India is a tough nut to crack: Trump's trade representative

India is a tough nut to crack: Trump's trade representative

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

A US trade representative described India as a 'tough nut to crack' during trade agreement negotiations in Washington, highlighting India's protection of its agricultural markets and the ongoing discussions on specific commodities.

Kerala CM Condemns Student Suicide, Promises Action Against Harassment

Kerala CM Condemns Student Suicide, Promises Action Against Harassment

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The alleged suicide of a first-year BDS student in Kerala has sparked outrage and prompted investigations into claims of caste-based harassment. The Chief Minister has condemned the incident, and various organisations are offering support to the student's family and calling for measures to prevent future occurrences.

Caretaker Found Dead: Concerns Over Minority Safety In Bangladesh

Caretaker Found Dead: Concerns Over Minority Safety In Bangladesh

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

A Hindu temple caretaker was found dead in Bangladesh, sparking outrage and demands for justice from minority groups. The caretaker had been missing for three days before his body was discovered.

Why Abhishek Banerjee Says TMC Is Key To Stopping BJP

Why Abhishek Banerjee Says TMC Is Key To Stopping BJP

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged voters in Murshidabad to support the TMC as the only way to defeat the BJP, claiming that other parties are indirectly aiding the BJP's influence.

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Special police observer Ajay Pal Sharma toured West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district during the second phase of Assembly elections, facing political controversy and allegations of intimidation from TMC leaders.

Odisha CEO orders verification of 9.8 lakh voter deletions

Odisha CEO orders verification of 9.8 lakh voter deletions

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Odisha's Chief Electoral Officer has ordered a thorough verification of nearly 1 million voter deletions following complaints of wrongful removals, particularly concerning deceased voters and those who may have shifted residences.

US weighs easing Iran oil sanctions to curb global price surge

US weighs easing Iran oil sanctions to curb global price surge

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Bessent indicated that the U.S. is evaluating the status of Iranian oil as the current campaign progresses.

BJP Protests, Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide

BJP Protests, Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Punjab BJP held a state-level protest against the AAP government, demanding a CBI probe into the suicide of a warehousing corporation official who allegedly faced harassment from a state minister.