News for 'Communities and Local Government'

'BJP Has Seen Defeat For 40 Years. That's Why It Never Loses In Gujarat Today'

'BJP Has Seen Defeat For 40 Years. That's Why It Never Loses In Gujarat Today'

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

'Narendra Modi -- a man with deep and vital experience of Indian politics -- has seen the BJP lose many elections between 1975 and 2015, and with every defeat, he learned lessons that made sure he would never allow his party to be defeated so easily again.'

Modi Slams TMC, Says Bengal Election Is To Save State's Identity

Modi Slams TMC, Says Bengal Election Is To Save State's Identity

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the Mamata Banerjee government of favouring infiltrators over the native population in West Bengal, asserting that the upcoming assembly election is a battle to save the state's identity.

Panchayat Assistant Found Dead In Sultanpur Village

Panchayat Assistant Found Dead In Sultanpur Village

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

A 27-year-old panchayat assistant was found dead inside a panchayat building in Vaideha village, Uttar Pradesh. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.

Mamata Banerjee Announces Traders' Welfare Board for West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Announces Traders' Welfare Board for West Bengal

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced the formation of a Traders' Welfare Board to serve as a platform between traders and the state government.

'Tamil Nadu Has Produced Most Dramatic Political Debut'

'Tamil Nadu Has Produced Most Dramatic Political Debut'

Rediff.com6 May 2026

'This is a major rupture in Tamil Nadu's political order.' 'For the Dravidian parties, the message is clear: The old DMK-AIADMK binary is no longer guaranteed a future.'

Modi: Bengal Election A Battle To Save State's Identity

Modi: Bengal Election A Battle To Save State's Identity

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the Mamata Banerjee government of favouring infiltrators over the native population, asserting that the upcoming assembly election in West Bengal is a battle to save the state's identity.

Modi Slams TMC For 'PhD In Looting' In West Bengal

Modi Slams TMC For 'PhD In Looting' In West Bengal

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the ruling TMC in West Bengal, alleging corruption and appeasement politics, while promoting the BJP's development agenda ahead of the assembly elections.

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.

Odisha govt slaps Rs 233 crore penalty on Vedanta for 'illegal' water extraction

Odisha govt slaps Rs 233 crore penalty on Vedanta for 'illegal' water extraction

Rediff.com4 May 2026

The Odisha government has issued a notice to Vedanta Aluminium Limited, Jharsuguda, demanding 233.11 crore for allegedly extracting over 30 lakh cubic metres of water monthly from the Bheden river system without authorisation between May 2025 and April 2026, a charge the company denies, claiming compliance with existing agreements.

Why Akhilesh Yadav Accuses BJP Of Injustice In Ghazipur Case

Why Akhilesh Yadav Accuses BJP Of Injustice In Ghazipur Case

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav has accused the BJP government of mistreating his party workers in Ghazipur, following allegations of sexual assault and murder of a 17-year-old girl. Yadav also criticised the police investigation and announced financial assistance to the victim's family.

Samajwadi Party Delegation Visits Family Of Deceased Teen In Ghazipur

Samajwadi Party Delegation Visits Family Of Deceased Teen In Ghazipur

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A Samajwadi Party delegation visited the family of a 17-year-old girl found dead in the Ganga River in Ghazipur, offering condolences and financial support amid allegations of sexual assault and murder.

Amit Shah Promises Jobs, End To Infiltration In Bengal

Amit Shah Promises Jobs, End To Infiltration In Bengal

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed poll rallies in West Bengal, promising jobs for youths and an 'infiltrator-free' state if the BJP wins the assembly elections. He also pledged to restore industrial glory, end syndicate raj, and ensure women's safety.

Walmart's India Sourcing Crosses $40 Billion Mark, Bolstering Export Push

Walmart's India Sourcing Crosses $40 Billion Mark, Bolstering Export Push

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Retail giant Walmart has announced that India has become one of its fastest-growing sourcing hubs globally, with the company having procured over $40 billion worth of goods from the country. This initiative aims to expand supplier capabilities, improve compliance standards, and help Indian manufacturers scale exports worldwide.

What NSA Ajit Doval Told 16 Prominent Indian Muslims

What NSA Ajit Doval Told 16 Prominent Indian Muslims

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

'I cannot imagine that any NSA before Ajit Doval would have given us this kind of time and this kind of engagement. They would have offered slogans, or nothing at all. That, too, tells you something.'

Modi Blasts TMC Over Lawlessness and Infiltration in West Bengal Rally

Modi Blasts TMC Over Lawlessness and Infiltration in West Bengal Rally

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, accusing them of lawlessness, corruption, and enabling illegal infiltration. He promised to initiate a special inquiry against facilitators of infiltration and to deport unauthorised entrants if the BJP comes to power in the state.

'Don't Know Whether Vijay Understands...'

'Don't Know Whether Vijay Understands...'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

'...the enormous responsibility and faith the youth has put on his shoulders, that he is going to solve their problems.'

Odisha tribal man carries sister's skeleton to bank to withdraw Rs 19,300

Odisha tribal man carries sister's skeleton to bank to withdraw Rs 19,300

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A tribal man in Odisha's Keonjhar district brought the skeleton of his dead sister to a bank to withdraw money deposited in her name after bank officials insisted on the account holder's presence.

Govt doctor, wife held for radicalising local women in J-K

Govt doctor, wife held for radicalising local women in J-K

Rediff.com19 Nov 2025

A government doctor and his wife have been detained in Jammu and Kashmir for allegedly misusing their positions to mask unlawful activities, including radicalizing local women through social media.

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

Rediff.com18 May 2026

'Every year we import approximately $70 billion worth of gold -- closer to $72 billion in 2025-2026, an all-time record.' 'There is no parallel for this anywhere in the world. And this love for gold will not disappear overnight.'

Bastar Region Sees Transformation as Security Camps Become Public Infrastructure

Bastar Region Sees Transformation as Security Camps Become Public Infrastructure

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India, is transitioning away from decades of Maoist conflict, with plans to convert security camps into public infrastructure. A senior Maoist commander recently surrendered, marking a significant step in the government's efforts to eliminate Naxalism.

Sri Lanka Urged To Probe Easter Blast Masterminds

Sri Lanka Urged To Probe Easter Blast Masterminds

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Sri Lanka commemorated the 7th anniversary of the Easter blasts, with Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith urging authorities to investigate individuals directly or indirectly involved in the deadly attacks, irrespective of their status.

Shah Promises Gorkha Solution, Case Withdrawals if BJP Wins Bengal

Shah Promises Gorkha Solution, Case Withdrawals if BJP Wins Bengal

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has pledged that the BJP will prioritise resolving the Gorkha issue in Darjeeling and withdraw cases against community leaders if elected in West Bengal. He criticised Mamata Banerjee's government for non-cooperation and assured a constitutional solution.

'I Want The South Asian Community To Feel They Have A Voice At City Hall'

'I Want The South Asian Community To Feel They Have A Voice At City Hall'

Rediff.com27 Oct 2025

'As Mayor, I will use my platform to reject any efforts by the Trump administration to curtail immigration.'

Like Zubeen Garg, Cong works to unite people: Rahul Gandhi

Like Zubeen Garg, Cong works to unite people: Rahul Gandhi

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of corruption and land grabbing, promising action if the Congress party wins the upcoming elections in Assam. Gandhi also criticised the BJP's governance and economic policies.

Technical Issues Hinder India's Renewable Energy Goals, Says Official

Technical Issues Hinder India's Renewable Energy Goals, Says Official

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

A top government official says that while India has made significant progress in renewable energy, technical issues are hindering large-scale implementation. The government is working on solutions such as grid flexibilisation and battery storage.

Speeding Tanker Kills Three Funeral Attendees in Kanpur, Sparking Protest

Speeding Tanker Kills Three Funeral Attendees in Kanpur, Sparking Protest

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Three men were killed in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, when a speeding milk tanker struck their motorcycle while they were on their way to attend a funeral. The incident sparked protests and traffic disruption.

How Mamata Banerjee Fared In Her 15 Year Rule

How Mamata Banerjee Fared In Her 15 Year Rule

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Under the TMC, Bengal has seen expansion of welfare, but not big-ticket private investment.

Why Odisha Bank Asked Man To Bring Sister's Skeleton

Why Odisha Bank Asked Man To Bring Sister's Skeleton

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A tribal man in Odisha was forced to carry his sister's exhumed skeleton to a bank to prove her death and withdraw her money, sparking outrage and prompting government intervention.

Pallichattambi Review: Visually Sumptuous

Pallichattambi Review: Visually Sumptuous

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The strength of the human spirit in the face of oppression and collective action is a theme well suited to these divided times, but Pallichattambi needed to be more precise and focused in its imagination to the make the noble intentions stick, notes Arjun Menon.

What The Opposition Must Learn From Mamata's Defeat

What The Opposition Must Learn From Mamata's Defeat

Rediff.com6 May 2026

'If the Opposition associates itself too much with the minorities, then it becomes easy for the BJP to get Hindu consolidation votes.'

High-profile Iranian woman held in US for arms trafficking

High-profile Iranian woman held in US for arms trafficking

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A 44-year-old Iranian woman with a US Green Card was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on suspicion of trafficking weapons on behalf of the Iranian government and is expected to appear in court on Monday.

Woman Killed in Leopard Attack Near Bijnor, India

Woman Killed in Leopard Attack Near Bijnor, India

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

A 57-year-old woman was killed by a leopard while working in a field with her husband near a forest in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh. The incident has sparked outrage among local residents.

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Transforming Dantewada Through Sports

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Transforming Dantewada Through Sports

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar participated in an event in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district as part of a grassroots sports initiative aimed at transforming the once Maoist hotbed into a thriving sports hub and opening new avenues for the youth.

Lessons that opposition party needs to learn after Bengal elections

Lessons that opposition party needs to learn after Bengal elections

Rediff.com5 May 2026

What lessons opposition parties need to learn post defeat of Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal elections? The election saw spectacular victor of BJP which rose from 3 seats in 2016 to 206 seats in 2026 assembly elections.

How Mahavir Jayanti Is Celebrated In India

How Mahavir Jayanti Is Celebrated In India

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

One of the notable celebrations includes the Rath Yatra -- a spectacular procession through the streets with Lord Mahavir's idol on a chariot, with followers accompanying it while chanting hymns and performing prayers.

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.

UCC, 'Ram Rajya': Shah sharpens BJP's Bengal poll pitch

UCC, 'Ram Rajya': Shah sharpens BJP's Bengal poll pitch

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the BJP's manifesto for West Bengal, promising a Uniform Civil Code, a Bengali chief minister, and improved governance.

8 Indians dead, one missing so far in West Asia conflict: Govt

8 Indians dead, one missing so far in West Asia conflict: Govt

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the deaths of eight Indian nationals and one missing person in West Asia due to the ongoing conflict. The Indian government is providing support to affected families and facilitating the return of citizens from the region.

'Bihar May Follow Gujarat Template'

'Bihar May Follow Gujarat Template'

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

'Samrat Chaudhury's limited independent standing within the party, his reliance on the central leadership for his elevation, and his lack of a personal mass base all point toward this outcome.'

'Resign if you can't...': HC raps Sambhal SP, DM for namaaz curbs

'Resign if you can't...': HC raps Sambhal SP, DM for namaaz curbs

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

The Allahabad High Court has criticised Uttar Pradesh officials for restricting the number of people allowed to pray at a mosque in Sambhal, stating that officials should resign if they cannot enforce the rule of law.