News for 'Backward India'

'Caste Census Will Divide People'

'Caste Census Will Divide People'

Rediff.com27 May 2025

'They are going to create so many nations within one nation.' 'If you do this exercise without a clear vision, it will have far reaching repercussions. It will end up in disaster and that will be dangerous.'

For How Long Will Nitish Hold The Fort?

For How Long Will Nitish Hold The Fort?

Rediff.com1 Jul 2025

Now it's all jibes about his chameleon-like politics and fading grip on the administration. But there was a time Nitish had the BJP trembling in the state, points out Aditi Phadnis.

Protocol breach: DU slams Rahul Gandhi's unannounced campus visit

Protocol breach: DU slams Rahul Gandhi's unannounced campus visit

Rediff.com22 May 2025

Delhi University has condemned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's unannounced visit to its North Campus, calling it a breach of institutional protocol and a disruption of student governance operations. Gandhi, who is also the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, interacted with students from Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) at the DU's North Campus, focusing on issues of representation, equality and academic justice. The university criticised the visit for disrupting the functioning of a key student body, the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU). The RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), which holds several posts in the DUSU, also issued a statement criticising Gandhi's visit.

'Virat Going To Leave India Very Soon'

'Virat Going To Leave India Very Soon'

Rediff.com20 Dec 2024

'Virat plans to move to London with his children and wife, Anushka Sharma.'

Maddie Upset After Jaiswal's Early Exit

Maddie Upset After Jaiswal's Early Exit

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

As Jaiswal trudged back to the dugout, Maddie, who is in India to support him during the tournament, was spotted with her face in her hands.

PIX: Abhishek scintillates as India crush England

PIX: Abhishek scintillates as India crush England

Rediff.com2 Feb 2025

A dominant India hammered England by 150 runs to claim the five-match series 4-1.

Justice Gavai sworn in as CJI, to have 6-month tenure

Justice Gavai sworn in as CJI, to have 6-month tenure

Rediff.com14 May 2025

Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai was on Wednesday sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India.

Kerala: The Puzzled Book Of Questions

Kerala: The Puzzled Book Of Questions

Rediff.com11 Jun 2025

Can a culture survive as a way of life, even as the language and writing at its core, alter with time? Can we be rational and Malayalee or do we have to necessarily be religious and proudly cultural to be Malayalee? asks Shyam G Menon.

Australia steamroll India in Women's ODI series opener

Australia steamroll India in Women's ODI series opener

Rediff.com5 Dec 2024

India put up a dismal show with the bat as Australia stamped their superiority over the visitors with a five-wicket win in the first Women's ODI in Brisbane on Thursday.

'U-turn' vs 'game changer': Caste census sparks war of words

'U-turn' vs 'game changer': Caste census sparks war of words

Rediff.com1 May 2025

Caste census politics took centre stage on Thursday with the Congress terming the government's decision as a 'diversionary tactic' and a move for headlines management and the Bharatiya Janata Party saying it has exposed the difference between the Centre's 'true intentions' and the 'empty sloganeering' of the opposition party.

Pak snubbed, ICC exposed: Champions Trophy was doomed from the start

Pak snubbed, ICC exposed: Champions Trophy was doomed from the start

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Allowing India to play all their matches in Dubai robbed Pakistan of the honour of hosting the final and disrupted the schedule of the knockout matches.

K'taka Guv forwards 4% Muslim quota bill to President's assent

K'taka Guv forwards 4% Muslim quota bill to President's assent

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has reserved the Bill pertaining to four percent reservation for Muslims in government contracts for the President's assent, citing constitutional concerns. The Bill, which has been a subject of controversy in Karnataka, was passed by both houses of the state legislature amid protests from the opposition BJP. The Governor's decision to reserve the Bill highlights the ongoing debate over the constitutionality of religious-based reservations in India.

Never said we'd change Constitution for Muslim quota: Shivakumar

Never said we'd change Constitution for Muslim quota: Shivakumar

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar denied on Monday making any comments regarding changing the Constitution to accommodate four per cent reservation for Muslims in the state. He claimed he was "misquoted" and warned of moving a breach of privilege motion. Shivakumar's remarks came after the BJP forced repeated adjournments in the Lok Sabha over his alleged comments on the matter. The BJP has accused Shivakumar of seeking to change the Constitution for political gain, highlighting the ongoing controversy surrounding reservation policies in India.

PIX: Rohit's ton powers India to series win vs England

PIX: Rohit's ton powers India to series win vs England

Rediff.com9 Feb 2025

Images from the first One-Day International between India and England at the Barabati Stadium, in Cuttack, on Sunday.

IPL PIX: Marsh's century spoils Titans' top-two hopes

IPL PIX: Marsh's century spoils Titans' top-two hopes

Rediff.com23 May 2025

Gujarat Titans messed up on a golden opportunity to seal a top two spot in the league table as Lucknow Super Giants earned a consolation 33-run victory.

Mayawati sacks nephew, rules out naming successor in her lifetime

Mayawati sacks nephew, rules out naming successor in her lifetime

Rediff.com3 Mar 2025

BSP chief Mayawati removed her nephew Akash Anand from all party posts and said that she will not name her successor till she is alive. In a slew of other significant changes in the BSP leadership announced at a high-level meeting of the party's office-bearers from across the country, Mayawati appointed her brother Anand Kumar and Ramji Gautam as national coordinators. Mayawati also criticized the budgets of both the central and Uttar Pradesh governments, saying they were "unrealistic" and detached from ground realities.

Caste census: Opposition parties claim victory

Caste census: Opposition parties claim victory

Rediff.com30 Apr 2025

As the Centre announced the inclusion of caste enumeration in the next census on Wednesday, opposition parties said it is a victory for their long-standing demand and sought time-bound implementation.

Justice Gavai to be next CJI, have 6-month tenure

Justice Gavai to be next CJI, have 6-month tenure

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has recommended Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as the next CJI. Justice Gavai, the second most senior Supreme Court judge, will become the 52nd CJI on May 14, 2024, after CJI Khanna's retirement on May 13. Justice Gavai has served on several important Constitution benches and has been a part of landmark verdicts, including the one upholding the Centre's decision to abrogate provisions of Article 370.

'Language of troll': Oppn slams Modi's 'Muslims repair punctures' remark

'Language of troll': Oppn slams Modi's 'Muslims repair punctures' remark

Rediff.com15 Apr 2025

'Such a remark does not behove the Prime Minister. Also, you have brought the country's youth to this point. There are no jobs. The only option is to fix punctures or sell fritters. Muslims don't just make punctures. I can list what Muslims have made'

Kuldeep ensures Rachin can't make most of reprieves

Kuldeep ensures Rachin can't make most of reprieves

Rediff.com9 Mar 2025

Rachin Ravindra had two reprieves before being sent back by Kuldeep Yadav.

'Jiostar's Content Library Is Larger Than Netflix'

'Jiostar's Content Library Is Larger Than Netflix'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

'As you're watching the IPL live, there's a conscious effort to showcase the entertainment portfolio.'

His fight is to save...: Rahul vs Kejriwal in Delhi

His fight is to save...: Rahul vs Kejriwal in Delhi

Rediff.com14 Jan 2025

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, accusing them of neglecting the welfare of backward sections, Dalits, tribals, and minorities. Gandhi promised a caste census in Delhi if the Congress forms the government, echoing his national call for removing the 50 percent cap on reservations. He also criticized Kejriwal's governance, drawing parallels with Modi's alleged reliance on propaganda and false promises. The Congress and AAP are part of the INDIA bloc, but are contesting the upcoming Delhi assembly polls separately. Gandhi's speech highlights the growing political tension ahead of the polls, where the Congress aims to regain its foothold in Delhi.

The Politics of A Caste Census

The Politics of A Caste Census

Rediff.com2 May 2025

While data can empower communities, it reinforces identities, making local politics more caste-centric, with decisions increasingly contested on the grounds of representation.

Such dynamics could lead to shifting alliances and, in the worst case, local governance getting paralysed as each group demands proportional power-sharing, explain Amitabh Kundu and Mehebub Rahaman.

Unconstitutional: Roll back 4% Muslim quota in contracts, BJP asks Sidda

Unconstitutional: Roll back 4% Muslim quota in contracts, BJP asks Sidda

Rediff.com17 Mar 2025

The BJP has vehemently criticized the Karnataka government's decision to provide four per cent reservation for Muslims in government contracts, labeling it an "unconstitutional misadventure." The party has pledged to challenge the move in court and has vowed to oppose it at all levels. Meanwhile, the ruling Congress party has defended the reservation, arguing that it aligns with constitutional provisions. The issue has led to heated exchanges in the Karnataka Assembly, with both parties accusing each other of engaging in appeasement politics.

Caste census decision exposes...: BJP

Caste census decision exposes...: BJP

Rediff.com1 May 2025

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday said the Centre's decision to include caste enumeration in the next census has exposed the difference between the Modi government's 'true intentions' and the 'empty sloganeering' of the Congress.

'Pro-Mamata Sentiment Among Muslims Is A Reality'

'Pro-Mamata Sentiment Among Muslims Is A Reality'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

'Mamata needs to address the anger and resentment among various sections of the Hindu community because low-scale communal violence has always paid richer electoral dividends for the BJP.'

Jorhat, Assam's Hidden Jewel

Jorhat, Assam's Hidden Jewel

Rediff.com2 May 2025

Jorhat has many attraction to offer for the discerning and offbeat traveller.

2 hours early! Kohli's dedication for Pakistan clash

2 hours early! Kohli's dedication for Pakistan clash

Rediff.com22 Feb 2025

Indian captain Virat Kohli arrived two hours early for practice ahead of the crucial Champions Trophy clash against Pakistan, focusing on his struggles against spin bowling.

Rickelton, SKY, Angrish? Who Batted Best?

Rickelton, SKY, Angrish? Who Batted Best?

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

Which batter impressed most at the Wankhede on Monday? Vote!

Kohli getting out to same kind of bowling a concern: Gavaskar

Kohli getting out to same kind of bowling a concern: Gavaskar

Rediff.com22 Feb 2025

Virat Kohli's recurring dismissals due to an open-faced bat is a matter of concern as India aim to regain the Champions Trophy after 12 years, believes legendary Sunil Gavaskar.

Why INDIA bloc to fight UP bypolls on 'cycle' symbol

Why INDIA bloc to fight UP bypolls on 'cycle' symbol

Rediff.com24 Oct 2024

Akhilesh said the alliance's decision was not informed by any seat-sharing math but its pursuit of victory.

Centre announces caste census; BJP, allies hail move

Centre announces caste census; BJP, allies hail move

Rediff.com1 May 2025

In a significant move, the Centre on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be part of the next population census, with the inclusion of caste details for the first time since independence hailed by the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies as a historic step to help design truly equitable and focused policies.

Boy oh Boy! Vaibhav Signals His Arrival in Style

Boy oh Boy! Vaibhav Signals His Arrival in Style

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

In a display of raw power and audacious stroke play, Rajasthan Royals' 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi tore into the Gujarat Titans bowling attack with a scintillating knock during which multiple records fell by the wayside in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday.

Rahul vs Scindia, royals over 'Maharaja' remarks

Rahul vs Scindia, royals over 'Maharaja' remarks

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

Addressing a rally in Mhow on Monday, Gandhi said Dalits, backwards and tribals had no rights before Independence, when "only maharajas and rajas enjoyed rights".

IPL PIX: Records Tumble as GT's Classy Trio Run Riot!

IPL PIX: Records Tumble as GT's Classy Trio Run Riot!

Rediff.com3 May 2025

Gujarat Titans scored a resounding 38-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad, in Ahmedabad on Friday, to move a step closer to the Indian Premier League play-offs.

K'taka caste census sparks outrage, Sidda ministers to oppose in cabinet

K'taka caste census sparks outrage, Sidda ministers to oppose in cabinet

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

Opposition to the Karnataka government's proposed implementation of a caste census has intensified with dominant communities raising concerns about the survey's findings. The report, which has not been publicly released, is said to contradict traditional perceptions regarding the numerical strength of various castes, particularly Veerashaiva-Lingayats and Vokkaligas. These communities, along with political parties, including sections of the ruling Congress, have criticized the survey as "unscientific" and demanded a fresh assessment. The Vokkaligara Sangha and the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha have expressed strong opposition, alleging that the report misrepresents their populations and demanding a fresh survey. Meanwhile, Dalit and OBC groups have defended the survey and its recommendations, including an increase in reservation for OBCs to 51%. The controversy has fueled political tensions in Karnataka, with opposition parties accusing the Congress government of using the caste census for political gain.

Will The Caste Census Boomerang On Modi?

Will The Caste Census Boomerang On Modi?

Rediff.com3 May 2025

The government has to specify what it intends to do with caste census data. It will be closely tracked if the government would simultaneously move towards removing the present 50% bar on reservations using means which are permitted in law. If this is not done, the entire exercise will become meaningless and could boomerang on the BJP, observes Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

PIX: Australia have India tottering after Head hundred

PIX: Australia have India tottering after Head hundred

Rediff.com7 Dec 2024

Images from Day 2 of the 'Pink-ball' second Test between Australia and India in Adelaide on Saturday.

After cement, Adani and Birla are set for a face-off in the wires and cable biz

After cement, Adani and Birla are set for a face-off in the wires and cable biz

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

After cement, billionaire Gautam Adani's group and Kumar Mangalam Birla's Aditya Birla Group are set for a face-off in the wires and cable business with both conglomerates announcing forays into the high double-digit growth sector.

Centre denies assent to TN's bill seeking NEET exemption

Centre denies assent to TN's bill seeking NEET exemption

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has announced that the state's Assembly resolution seeking NEET exemption, which was sent for Presidential assent, has been declined by the Centre. Stalin termed the rejection as a "dark chapter in federalism" and accused the Centre of disregarding the will of the Tamil Nadu people. He also announced an all-political party meeting on April 9 to discuss the issue further.