News for 'Council of States'

Doctors, academics among 35 new faces in Adhikari's Cabinet

Doctors, academics among 35 new faces in Adhikari's Cabinet

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Thirty-five BJP MLAs were sworn in as ministers as part of an expansion of the Suvendu Adhikari-led cabinet in West Bengal. The oath-taking ceremony took place weeks after Adhikari was sworn in as chief minister.

Harsh Malhotra's appointment as Delhi BJP chief signals Cabinet reshuffle

Harsh Malhotra's appointment as Delhi BJP chief signals Cabinet reshuffle

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed Harsh Malhotra as the president of its Delhi unit, sparking speculation about an imminent reshuffle of the Union Council of Ministers. This move follows the BJP's 'one person, one post' principle and comes as the party prepares for upcoming elections and a review of ministerial performance.

Why India Wants UN Sanctions On Afghanistan Revised

Why India Wants UN Sanctions On Afghanistan Revised

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

India has urged the United Nations to update its sanctions regime against Afghanistan, arguing that it must reflect the changed political reality and focus on incentivising positive actions rather than solely relying on punitive measures. India highlighted its ongoing humanitarian and development support for the Afghan people.

Safeguarding rules: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to follow special protocols during England tour

Safeguarding rules: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to follow special protocols during England tour

Rediff.com6 days ago

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who is expected to become India's youngest-ever international cricketer when he takes the field against Ireland in Belfast on Friday, will be provided separate changing facilities throughout the subsequent T20 series in England due to safeguarding regulations governing underage athletes.

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Rediff.com7 days ago

Amid cross-voting from both ruling and Opposition ranks, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Mahayuti on Monday swept 16 of the 17 Maharashtra Legislative Council seats from local authorities' constituencies even as Nashik delivered a surprise defeat to the governing bloc.

Xi Watching? Modi-Takaichi to Hold Talks In Assam

Xi Watching? Modi-Takaichi to Hold Talks In Assam

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Japanese PM's visit to Assam comes amid festering uneasiness in Tokyo about Beijing's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Rediff.com1 days ago

For the foreseeable future, the most likely outcome remains continuation of the status quo. Taiwan will remain self-governing without formally declaring independence, while China continues to apply sustained pressure short of war, predict Krishnan Srinivasan and Manoj Mohanka.

Reports hint at CM change in Karnataka, Cong defers decision

Reports hint at CM change in Karnataka, Cong defers decision

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Sources said the party top brass including Gandhi and Kharge held several hours of discussions with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, apart from meeting them separately, and is likely to take a call on a possible change of guard in the state after the Rajya Sabha polls, which are due next month.

India Demands Justice For Slain UN Peacekeeper In Lebanon Attack

India Demands Justice For Slain UN Peacekeeper In Lebanon Attack

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

India has strongly condemned an attack on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon that resulted in the death of a Serbian Blue Helmet and injuries to two others. The nation has called for an immediate and thorough investigation to ensure accountability for the perpetrators. This incident follows a series of attacks on UNIFIL personnel amidst escalating hostilities in the region, prompting global calls for peacekeeper safety.

Who are the key players in the US-Iran peace deal?

Who are the key players in the US-Iran peace deal?

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump announced a finalised peace deal between the US and Iran, set for signing on June 19 in Switzerland, with key figures like J D Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner from the US side, and Abbas Araghchi and Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf representing Iran, alongside Pakistani mediators Field Marshal Asim Munir, Shehbaz Sharif, Ishaq Dar, and Mohsin Naqvi, playing crucial roles in the diplomatic breakthrough.

'People gravitate towards power': Rebel Uddhav MP Omprakash defends switch

'People gravitate towards power': Rebel Uddhav MP Omprakash defends switch

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Rebel Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray MP Omprakash Rajenimbalkar has justified his crossover to the ruling Shiv Sena, saying if the people are gravitating towards power, he is merely following the trend.

NCERT to restore 'Dancing Girl' image in school textbook after criticism

NCERT to restore 'Dancing Girl' image in school textbook after criticism

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has altered the iconic 'Dancing Girl' figurine from Mohenjo-daro in its new Class 9 arts textbook, covering its bare torso with shading. This change has drawn criticism for misrepresenting the original artefact and sparking a debate on what is considered 'age-appropriate' in educational materials.

Vijay's government to hold social justice survey, move court for financial devolution

Vijay's government to hold social justice survey, move court for financial devolution

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu Governor RV Arlekar announced that the TVK regime, led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, will take steps to ensure fair financial devolution from the Centre, including pursuing the matter in the Supreme Court. The government also plans to conduct a 'Social Justice Survey' and address the state's severe financial deterioration.

Maharashtra MLC Accuses Government Of Shielding Police In Teacher's Death Case

Maharashtra MLC Accuses Government Of Shielding Police In Teacher's Death Case

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Ambadas Danve has accused the Maharashtra government of attempting to protect police personnel allegedly involved in the death of a teacher, Suresh Borse, in Ellora. Borse's family claims he was beaten to death, with police involvement. Danve stated he would raise the issue with the Chief Minister and shared a social media post showing a police officer with an alleged accused.

Danve Alleges Government Protecting Police In Teacher's Death Case

Danve Alleges Government Protecting Police In Teacher's Death Case

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Ambadas Danve has accused the government of protecting police personnel allegedly involved in the death of a teacher, Suresh Borse, in Ellora. Danve claims a police officer was present during the incident and shared a picture on X suggesting police links to an accused.

DK Shivakumar elected CLP leader, to take oath as K'taka CM on June 3

DK Shivakumar elected CLP leader, to take oath as K'taka CM on June 3

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot invited D K Shivakumar to take oath as the chief minister of the state along with team members on June 3.

First in six decades: Australia pick India-born Nikhil Chaudhary for Bangladesh T20s

First in six decades: Australia pick India-born Nikhil Chaudhary for Bangladesh T20s

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Delhi-born Nikhil Chaudhary, who played for Punjab till 2016-2017, was called up to the Australian T20 squad for a three-match tour to Bangladesh next week.

BJP gives ticket to Supriya Sule's daughter's future father in-law

BJP gives ticket to Supriya Sule's daughter's future father in-law

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

BJP candidate Arun Lakhani, contesting the Maharashtra legislative council elections, addresses the unique situation of his son's marriage to Supriya Sule's daughter, emphasising the separation of politics and family ties.

Maharashtra Council Approves Law to Protect Acid Attack Victims, Penalise Online Sexual Harassment

Maharashtra Council Approves Law to Protect Acid Attack Victims, Penalise Online Sexual Harassment

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra legislative council has unanimously passed the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Maharashtra Amendment) Bill 2026, incorporating provisions from the Shakti Bill to protect acid attack victims' identities and penalise digital sexual harassment.

Ice breaks in Manipur: CM, Kuki Zo Council hold first talks since violence

Ice breaks in Manipur: CM, Kuki Zo Council hold first talks since violence

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh expressed optimism following a meeting with the Kuki Zo Council, viewing it as a positive step towards restoring peace and trust between the Meitei and Kuki communities in the state.

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The NDA government has gradually nuanced its position on the issue of demographic challenge.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

'An Earthquake Is Coming In Maharashtra Politics'

'An Earthquake Is Coming In Maharashtra Politics'

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

'Delimitation is scheduled for 2028. No matter how much the BJP currently depends on the Shinde Sena or NCP factions, it may not need them after delimitation.'

Trinamool crisis deepens: RS MP quits, Chairman accepts resignation

Trinamool crisis deepens: RS MP quits, Chairman accepts resignation

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Rajya Sabha MP Sukhen Shekhar Ray has resigned from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and his parliamentary seat, adding to the party's ongoing internal crisis and political turmoil.

Trump announces Iran peace deal, to be signed in Switzerland on Friday

Trump announces Iran peace deal, to be signed in Switzerland on Friday

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have announced a landmark peace deal between the US and Iran, which includes the crucial reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and the immediate cessation of military operations in Lebanon.

Targeted Killings Claim Lives Of Two Pakistan Police Officers

Targeted Killings Claim Lives Of Two Pakistan Police Officers

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Two police personnel were killed in separate targeted attacks in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The incidents occurred in Bannu district, a region experiencing a surge in militant violence, prompting investigations and search operations by authorities.

India To Pakistan: Face Consequences For Terrorism

India To Pakistan: Face Consequences For Terrorism

Rediff.com27 May 2026

India has strongly criticised Pakistan at a UN Security Council meeting, asserting its right to defend itself against cross-border terrorism and warning of consequences for Pakistan's support of such activities.

Viral Video Leads To FIR Against Man For Abusing UP CM

Viral Video Leads To FIR Against Man For Abusing UP CM

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Police in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, have registered a case against a man for allegedly making abusive remarks against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during an argument at a petrol pump, following a viral video of the incident.

Modi sets 2047 deadline, warns ministers against delays

Modi sets 2047 deadline, warns ministers against delays

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting with his council of ministers, focusing on enhancing 'Ease of Living' and 'Ease of Doing Business' and setting the goal of a developed India by 2047.

Delhi University Staff Fight College Name Change

Delhi University Staff Fight College Name Change

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The staff association of Dyal Singh Evening College is protesting the proposed renaming of the college to Banda Singh Bahadur, following a decision made in December 2025. They met with the Governing Body chairman to voice their concerns and request a staff council meeting to discuss the matter.

Meet Dr Ros Rivaz, ICC's new face after Indra Nooyi

Meet Dr Ros Rivaz, ICC's new face after Indra Nooyi

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The ICC has announced the appointment of Dr. Ros Rivaz as its new Independent Director, succeeding Indra Nooyi. Rivaz brings extensive experience in governance, corporate strategy, and operational effectiveness to the role.

Governor accepts Siddaramaiah's resignation

Governor accepts Siddaramaiah's resignation

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation, and the Governor dissolved the Council of Ministers. Siddaramaiah will continue as CM until alternative arrangements are made. D K Shivakumar is likely to succeed him, and both are in Delhi to discuss the transition with the Congress high command.

Kharge, Pawan Khera among Cong's Rajya Sabha picks

Kharge, Pawan Khera among Cong's Rajya Sabha picks

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Congress party has announced its seven candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Pawan Khera, Meenakshi Natarajan, Praveen Chakravarty, Neeraj Dangi, Mansoor Ali Khan, and Pranav Jha, representing various states like Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand. The elections are set for June 18.

'Trump Genuinely Likes India'

'Trump Genuinely Likes India'

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

'The flip side of this is that he won't hesitate to call out India if he thinks its policies are hurting US economic interests or border US foreign policy goals.'

Beed Civic Body Issues Notice Over NEET Accused's Illegal Building

Beed Civic Body Issues Notice Over NEET Accused's Illegal Building

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Beed Municipal Council has issued notices regarding an unauthorised construction linked to Prahlad Kulkarni, a key accused in the NEET-UG paper leak case.

Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar To Host Asian Athletics Events

Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar To Host Asian Athletics Events

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Chandigarh and Bhubaneswar have been awarded the rights to host the Asian Relays in 2027 and the Asian Indoor Championships in 2028, respectively, marking a significant achievement for Indian athletics.

Will Pakistan rethink its Israel policy after Rubio talks?

Will Pakistan rethink its Israel policy after Rubio talks?

Rediff.com29 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar amid American demand that countries mediating the peace talks with Iran join the Abraham Accords and establish diplomatic and economic ties with Israel.

Assam Meghalaya Border Peace Deal Revives Farming

Assam Meghalaya Border Peace Deal Revives Farming

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Under the agreement reached between the two sides, Karbi community farmers from Assam will be allowed to cultivate and tend their crops for one agricultural season in fields claimed by Meghalaya.

Maharashtra Teacher's Death: Wife Alleges Police Brutality, Protests Erupt

Maharashtra Teacher's Death: Wife Alleges Police Brutality, Protests Erupt

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

A Zilla Parishad teacher, Suresh Borse, died in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar after an alleged assault following a spat in Ellora. His wife claims police personnel were involved in the beating. Police have registered a case against unidentified accused and are investigating the role of police personnel, while protests have erupted demanding a murder case against the officers.

Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar To Host Asian Athletics Events

Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar To Host Asian Athletics Events

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Chandigarh and Bhubaneswar have been awarded the rights to host the Asian Relays in 2027 and the Asian Indoor Championships in 2028, respectively, marking a significant moment for Indian athletics.