News for 'Defending Congress'

Passport not proof of citizenship: Shashi Tharoor has a solution

Passport not proof of citizenship: Shashi Tharoor has a solution

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Amid the passport row, Shashi Tharoor has proposed legal changes to simplify proof of Indian citizenship.

Nitish didn't leave INDIA bloc because of me: Rahul

Nitish didn't leave INDIA bloc because of me: Rahul

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi told INDIA bloc leaders that despite public anger indicating a win for the opposition, the main challenge is the alleged lack of free and fair elections due to the BJP's control over state institutions. He urged unity and a strategy of 'resistance' against what he termed election 'theft'.

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Requires Extensive Details

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Requires Extensive Details

Rediff.com28 May 2026

West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul defended the detailed application form for the Annapurna Yojana scheme, stating it ensures benefits reach only Indian citizens. She also announced stringent waste-related penalties and a 'Swachh App' to improve urban cleanliness.

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Is Facing Criticism

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Is Facing Criticism

Rediff.com29 May 2026

West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul defended the detailed application form for the 'Annapurna Yojana', stating the government aims to ensure benefits reach only Indian citizens, amidst criticism over excessive documentation.

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The internecine war within the Trinamool Congress took a new turn on Thursday with "party treasurer" Aroop Biswas writing to a bank seeking restrictions on the operation of the party's accounts, citing uncertainty over its legitimate leadership amid rebellions by MLAs and MPs.

Odisha CM Under Fire For Alleged Rise In Police Brutality

Odisha CM Under Fire For Alleged Rise In Police Brutality

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Opposition parties in Odisha, BJD and Congress, have criticised Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accusing him of a surge in police brutality. The allegations stem from a custodial death in Ganjam district and other instances of alleged police misconduct. The BJP has defended the government, stating that prompt action has been taken in response to these cases.

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Government sources have clarified that a passport has never been considered proof of citizenship in India, a stance consistent for the past 12 years and rooted in the Passport Act 1967. This clarification, reiterated by the Ministry of External Affairs, has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and public figures.

Karnataka Congress MLA accuses KSCA of selling IPL tickets on black market

Karnataka Congress MLA accuses KSCA of selling IPL tickets on black market

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Congress MLA Kashappanavar Vijayananda Shivashankarappa has accused the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) of selling IPL 2026 complementary tickets meant to be issued to legislators and ministers on the black market.

Kerala CM's new secretary faces political backlash: Here's why

Kerala CM's new secretary faces political backlash: Here's why

Rediff.com24 May 2026

The appointment of Rathan U Kelkar as secretary to Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has sparked a political controversy, with the CPI(M) accusing the Congress of double standards regarding appointments of election officials.

Trinamool Congress Alleges BJP Will Raise Fuel Prices After West Bengal Elections

Trinamool Congress Alleges BJP Will Raise Fuel Prices After West Bengal Elections

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Senior Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has accused the BJP-led central government of planning to increase fuel prices after the West Bengal assembly elections. He challenged the BJP to promise no price hikes for LPG, petrol, and diesel over the next five years.

Speaker Om Birla to decide fate of rebel TMC bloc as NCPI eyes major LS leap

Speaker Om Birla to decide fate of rebel TMC bloc as NCPI eyes major LS leap

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

The Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) has named Jyotiprakash Chatterji as its new president, a development that follows the merger of a Trinamool Congress (TMC) rebel Lok Sabha faction with the party. This announcement by Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, a key figure in the dissident camp, comes amidst speculation about the party's leadership after its founder stepped down. However, details about Chatterji and the party's internal workings remain unclear, with some existing members expressing unawareness of the change.

'Ideologically, D K Shivakumar Is Rather RSS-ish'

'Ideologically, D K Shivakumar Is Rather RSS-ish'

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

'Shivakumar's relationship with the BJP and the RSS is not adversarial in the way Siddaramaiah's has been.' 'Siddaramaiah has publicly attacked the RSS on record; Shivakumar has made no such statement at any point.' 'He vociferously defended the Karnataka government's celebration of Ram temple consecration with RSS-ish arguments.'

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

Rediff.com27 May 2026

CPI(M) leaders have strongly criticised the ED raids on former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and others, alleging political motivation and a conspiracy by the BJP and Congress. They claim the raids are an attempt to intimidate the party and its leaders, and have vowed to fight back against what they see as a politically fabricated case.

Assam CM Defends Zubeen Garg Murder Charges Despite Singapore Coroner's Ruling

Assam CM Defends Zubeen Garg Murder Charges Despite Singapore Coroner's Ruling

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Opposition parties question the Assam police's murder charges in the Zubeen Garg death case after a Singapore coroner ruled out foul play, while Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defends the state's investigation.

Kerala CM's New Secretary Faces Political Firestorm

Kerala CM's New Secretary Faces Political Firestorm

Rediff.com24 May 2026

The appointment of senior IAS officer Rathan U Kelkar as secretary to Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has ignited a political controversy, drawing criticism from the CPI(M), CPI, and BJP.

Why V D Satheesan Will Be A Good Kerala Chief Minister

Why V D Satheesan Will Be A Good Kerala Chief Minister

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan expressed confidence in V D Satheesan's ability to lead Kerala as Chief Minister, citing his vision, competence, and strength. Other Congress leaders have also expressed their views on the new CM.

Tmc Explains Expulsion Of Mlas Over Signature Complaint

Tmc Explains Expulsion Of Mlas Over Signature Complaint

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh explained the expulsion of two MLAs, stating they should have approached the party leadership before complaining to the Assembly speaker about a 'fake signature' case.

Father's Day: Fathers Of 18 Famous Indians

Father's Day: Fathers Of 18 Famous Indians

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Who are the special fathers of these famous Indians? The paternal figures responsible for putting them on the right path and helping them find greatness.

Remembering Jaspal Rana: The Pioneer Who Transformed Indian Shooting

Remembering Jaspal Rana: The Pioneer Who Transformed Indian Shooting

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Jaspal Rana, a legendary Indian shooter and influential coach, has passed away at 49 after battling cardiac issues. He was a pioneer who brought shooting into the national spotlight with his fearless performances and later shaped the careers of many world-class athletes, including Manu Bhaker, leaving an indelible mark on Indian sports.

Kerala CM Slams Attack On ED Officials After Raid

Kerala CM Slams Attack On ED Officials After Raid

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has condemned the attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials following a search at his rented residence, calling it a serious offence. He also defended the ED's investigation into financial dealings involving his daughter's firm.

TMC crisis: After Kalyan's 'arrogance' attack, Abhishek extends olive branch

TMC crisis: After Kalyan's 'arrogance' attack, Abhishek extends olive branch

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Under attack from senior Trinamool Congress lawmaker Kalyan Banerjee amid turmoil within the party, its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Friday struck a conciliatory note, describing the Serampore MP as an elder who has "brought him up" and therefore had every right to criticise him.

INLD Alleges Bias In Haryana Government Job Recruitment

INLD Alleges Bias In Haryana Government Job Recruitment

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) staged a protest in Panchkula, alleging that the BJP government in Haryana is unfairly recruiting individuals from outside the state for government jobs, thereby depriving local youth of employment opportunities.

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting 'Melody' toffees to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, calling it a 'gimmick' while India faces an 'economic storm'. He accused Modi of prioritising public relations over addressing the struggles of farmers, labourers, and youth, a sentiment echoed by other Congress leaders.

No lapses will be tolerated: Pradhan reviews CBSE evaluation system

No lapses will be tolerated: Pradhan reviews CBSE evaluation system

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has directed officials to address issues faced by students regarding the CBSE examination system, following allegations of irregularities. The government has committed to transparency and accountability, assuring that all genuine concerns will be addressed effectively.

Debutant Diamond Harbour FC clinch IFL title, secure promotion to Indian Super League

Debutant Diamond Harbour FC clinch IFL title, secure promotion to Indian Super League

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Diamond Harbour FC secured the Indian Football League (IFL) title in their debut season, drawing 1-1 with Dempo SC and earning promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL).

Aiyar versus Tharoor: Congress's men of letters in war of letters

Aiyar versus Tharoor: Congress's men of letters in war of letters

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

A public exchange of open letters between Congress leaders Mani Shankar Aiyar and Shashi Tharoor reveals a significant rift over foreign policy, particularly concerning Israel and the Sabarimala temple issue.

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Rediff.com21 May 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the Tamil invocation song was rendered last during the swearing-in of new ministers. Left parties have criticised the decision to sing the Tamil anthem after Vande Mataram and the national anthem.

'Vijay Not Only Had Star Power. He Had Timing'

'Vijay Not Only Had Star Power. He Had Timing'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'Vijay entered politics at a much better age compared to Rajnikanth and Kamal Haasan. His fans are young and he has at least 2-3 decades ahead of him.'

Ticket controversy casts shadow on Bengaluru hosting IPL 2026 final

Ticket controversy casts shadow on Bengaluru hosting IPL 2026 final

Rediff.com5 May 2026

IPL 2026 final venue remains uncertain as political issues in Bengaluru force BCCI to consider alternative cities, with playoffs likely split between Punjab and Karnataka.

Cong stands for truth, defends truth of India: Rahul Gandhi in Berlin

Cong stands for truth, defends truth of India: Rahul Gandhi in Berlin

Rediff.com19 Dec 2025

Rahul Gandhi engaged with German think-tanks and addressed the Hertie School in Berlin, discussing India's trajectory, democracy, and global cooperation. He also addressed the Indian community, emphasizing the importance of truth and democratic values.

Karnataka CM won't be changed 'for now': Kharge

Karnataka CM won't be changed 'for now': Kharge

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge addressed speculation about a change in Karnataka's Chief Minister, stating that there would be no change 'for now' and that the leadership issue would be resolved soon. The statement comes amid rumours of a possible leadership change and cabinet reshuffle after the results of assembly elections in other states are announced.

Rajasthan drops 4 textbooks, sparks 'history rewrite' row

Rajasthan drops 4 textbooks, sparks 'history rewrite' row

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Rajasthan government's decision to discontinue four school textbooks has ignited a political controversy, with the Education Minister defending the move and the Congress party accusing the government of attempting to erase history.

Assam assembly passes UCC bill, excludes scheduled tribes

Assam assembly passes UCC bill, excludes scheduled tribes

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Assam Assembly has passed the Uniform Civil Code Bill, aiming to establish a common legal framework for marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships, irrespective of religion. This makes Assam the third state in India to pass such a bill, following Uttarakhand and Gujarat.

Congress axes Navjot Kaur Sidhu after Rahul Gandhi criticism

Congress axes Navjot Kaur Sidhu after Rahul Gandhi criticism

Rediff.com7 Feb 2026

The Congress party has expelled Navjot Kaur Sidhu after she publicly criticized Rahul Gandhi. The expulsion follows her earlier suspension and a series of posts on X where she attacked the party leadership and questioned their commitment to Punjab.

US pauses Taiwan arms sale to save munitions for Iran war

US pauses Taiwan arms sale to save munitions for Iran war

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The United States has paused a proposed USD 14 billion arms sale to Taiwan due to concerns about maintaining sufficient munitions for potential conflicts, particularly in light of the ongoing situation with Iran.

Punjab AAP Accuses BJP Leader Bittu Of Hooliganism

Punjab AAP Accuses BJP Leader Bittu Of Hooliganism

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Punjab's AAP president, Aman Arora, has criticised Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu for alleged misconduct and objectionable behaviour towards police personnel in Dhuri, while Bittu accuses the AAP government of misusing the police to target BJP workers.

Thousands Rally For Iran's World Cup Team Amid Visa Concerns

Thousands Rally For Iran's World Cup Team Amid Visa Concerns

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Iran hosted a large send-off rally for its World Cup team in Tehran, despite ongoing concerns about visa issues for entry into the United States, where the team is scheduled to play its group matches.

Bengal: Tensions flare in Howrah after clashes between TMC, BJP workers

Bengal: Tensions flare in Howrah after clashes between TMC, BJP workers

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Chaurabasti area of Shivpur turned into a flashpoint of political violence on Thursday as supporters of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) reportedly engaged in a violent face-off.

Why Rijiju Is Calling TMC Anti-Women

Why Rijiju Is Calling TMC Anti-Women

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of being 'anti-women' and obstructing the passage of the women's reservation bill in Lok Sabha. He criticised the TMC's opposition to the bill and defended the BJP's commitment to increasing women's representation in politics.

Sharad Pawar rebukes Parth, backs Cong right to contest Baramati bypoll

Sharad Pawar rebukes Parth, backs Cong right to contest Baramati bypoll

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar defends the Congress party's right to contest the Baramati assembly bypoll, criticising his grandnephew Parth Pawar's remarks against the Congress candidate. Pawar cites the importance of electoral contest and questions Parth's political maturity.