News for 'Janata Dal'

Pandian's wife, ex-IAS officer Sujata joins Biju Janata Dal

Pandian's wife, ex-IAS officer Sujata joins Biju Janata Dal

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Sujata Rout Karthikeyan, wife of former Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik's close aide VK Pandian, has formally joined the BJD. Naveen Patnaik welcomed her, emphasising her experience as an IAS officer and her work with women. Patnaik also clarified that he would continue to lead the BJD in the next elections, despite speculation about Sujata taking over. Sujata expressed her dedication to serving the people of Odisha under Patnaik's leadership. Her entry into politics follows her husband's withdrawal after the BJD's recent electoral defeat.

Prashant Kishor enters Bihar's Bankipur bypoll fray, challenges BJP

Prashant Kishor enters Bihar's Bankipur bypoll fray, challenges BJP

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor has announced his decision to contest the Bankipur assembly by-election in Bihar. He frames the bypoll as a "referendum" on the performance of the current BJP-led government under Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary. Kishor, a former poll strategist, aims to challenge the established parties in a seat traditionally held by the BJP.

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

Rediff.com1 days ago

Dharmendra Pradhan's political career faced an unexpected jolt as he resigned as Education Minister following nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, marking a significant departure from the government's initial dismissive response to the agitation.

Biju Janata Dal backs Vaishnaw in RS polls; no alliance, says BJP

Biju Janata Dal backs Vaishnaw in RS polls; no alliance, says BJP

Rediff.com14 Feb 2024

The Biju Janata Dal on Wednesday announced its support for the candidature of Bharatiya Janata Party's Ashwini Vaishnaw in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha

'Humiliated' RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari quits party

'Humiliated' RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari quits party

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari has announced his resignation from the party, citing a lack of space for dedicated workers and alleging humiliation. He also claimed that Tejashwi Yadav is surrounded by elements "hollowing" the party.

Biju Janata Dal may abstain in vice-presidential poll

Biju Janata Dal may abstain in vice-presidential poll

Rediff.com29 Jul 2012

The Biju Janata Dal on Saturday resolved to abstain in the vice-presidential polls. It has 20 MPs in both houses.

Sidda's journey: From Janata Parivar to Karnataka's longest-serving CM

Sidda's journey: From Janata Parivar to Karnataka's longest-serving CM

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Siddaramaiah, a veteran politician with roots in the Janata Parivar, has had a remarkable journey, consolidating his position in the Congress party to become the longest-serving Chief Minister of Karnataka.

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Having governed Odisha for 24 uninterrupted years, the BJD now finds itself in the unfamiliar role of Opposition. Its organisational overhaul following the 2024 defeat has yet to produce a recognisable second line of leadership.

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The bill was passed by both houses of the state legislature during the winter session in Belagavi that concluded on December 19 last year, despite strong opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Janata Dal-Secular.

SC seeks SIT status report on Ayodhya donation 'theft'

SC seeks SIT status report on Ayodhya donation 'theft'

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team (SIT) to submit a status report on the alleged embezzlement of donation money at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also issued notice to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust following pleas for a fair and time-bound probe, including demands for a CBI investigation and a CAG audit of the temple trust's finances.

Jamshedpur on edge after Karni Sena leader murder during brawl, 5 held

Jamshedpur on edge after Karni Sena leader murder during brawl, 5 held

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the murder of Karni Sena leader Himanshu Singh in Jamshedpur, who was stabbed after protesting alleged eve-teasing. Prohibitory orders have been imposed across parts of the city, and a Jamshedpur bandh has been called by opposition parties for July 3.

Puri Rath Yatra: Lord Jagannath's missing floral crown sparks row

Puri Rath Yatra: Lord Jagannath's missing floral crown sparks row

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

A controversy has erupted in Odisha after Lord Jagannath's idol was moved from the Puri temple to the chariot during the Rath Yatra without its traditional 'Tahia' floral headgear, leading to strong criticism from opposition parties BJD and Congress against the BJP government.

Can Dinesh Trivedi Reset India-Bangladesh Ties?

Can Dinesh Trivedi Reset India-Bangladesh Ties?

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Dinesh Trivedi's experience as a businessperson and his fluency in Bengali are expected to be crucial in strengthening India-Bangladesh relations, particularly in attracting Indian investments to Dhaka.

Why Samrat Choudhary Wants Rabri Out Of Her Bungalow

Why Samrat Choudhary Wants Rabri Out Of Her Bungalow

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'Har haal mein ghar khali karna hoga, koi mai ka lal nahi hai jo sarkari ghar khali nahi karega'.

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Aamir Khan's comments that his 3 Idiots character Phunsukh Wangdu was not based on Sonam Wangchuk has triggered reactions from politicians, activists and social media users, with some accusing the actor of distancing himself from the educationist, who is currently on a hunger strike.

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Opposition leaders across party lines have condemned the forced removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from the Jantar Mantar protest site in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of undermining democratic freedoms, curbing dissent, and choosing force over dialogue.

Bihar Implements UP-Style Encounters

Bihar Implements UP-Style Encounters

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Six police encounter in five days in Bihar, the first such action to deal with criminals in decades.

Bihar government withdraws Z-plus security for Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi

Bihar government withdraws Z-plus security for Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Bihar government has withdrawn the Z-plus security cover for RJD leaders Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi, and Y-category security for Tej Pratap, following a review of VIP protection in the state. They will now receive security from the Bihar Special Armed Police.

NDA alleges 'massive irregularities' in Karnataka SIR, demands probe

NDA alleges 'massive irregularities' in Karnataka SIR, demands probe

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

A delegation of NDA leaders in Karnataka has formally complained to the Chief Electoral Officer, alleging "massive irregularities" in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demanding an immediate inquiry and door-to-door re-verification.

Janata Dal-United, BJP in 'friendly fight': Rabri

Janata Dal-United, BJP in 'friendly fight': Rabri

Rediff.com12 Nov 2013

Taking dim view of the ongoing war of words between Janata Dal-United and BJP, former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi said the two estranged allies were orchestrating a 'friendly fight' with each other to distract attention from the real issues.

TMC revolt brings NDA closer to two-thirds mark in RS; LS goal distant

TMC revolt brings NDA closer to two-thirds mark in RS; LS goal distant

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A rebellion within the Trinamool Congress is expected to significantly increase the NDA's numbers in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, bringing the ruling alliance closer to a two-thirds majority needed for constitutional amendments. This shift is driven by upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, TMC MP resignations, and potential support from defecting TMC Lok Sabha members.

NDA Closes On Rajya Sabha Two-Third Mark

NDA Closes On Rajya Sabha Two-Third Mark

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Its strength is set to increase by 3 seats once the current round of Rajya Sabha polls for 27 seats are concluded on June 28.

INDIA bloc to meet after 2 years amid churn, TVK to join

INDIA bloc to meet after 2 years amid churn, TVK to join

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Top leaders of opposition parties including Congress' Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, TMC's Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav of Rashtriya Janata Dal and Uddhav Thackeray of Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray, besides Left leaders and those from smaller parties, are likely to attend the meeting at the Constitution Club in the national capital.

Nitish's Son To Plunge Into Politics

Nitish's Son To Plunge Into Politics

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Nishant, a non-controversial figure, is like his father, an engineer.

Cong chief Kharge, BJP leader among 4 candidates elected to RS from K'taka

Cong chief Kharge, BJP leader among 4 candidates elected to RS from K'taka

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Three Congress candidates, including All India Congress Committee president Mallikarjun Kharge, and one Bharatiya Janata Party nominee were declared elected "unanimously" to the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka on Thursday, election officials said.

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Omar Abdullah has so far laboured hard to make best of a bad bargain. Even so, the ground reality is anything but reassuring. The Opposition parties, including notably the PDP, appear to be gaining ground, though more by default. Public patience with Omar's government has nearly run out, notes Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

BJP's Rajya Sabha Picks Spark Cabinet Reshuffle Talk

BJP's Rajya Sabha Picks Spark Cabinet Reshuffle Talk

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The BJP has announced 11 candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls, notably omitting Union ministers Ravneet Singh Bittu and George Kurian, whose terms end soon. This decision, alongside other recent appointments, has fuelled speculation about an imminent Cabinet reshuffle. The list includes new faces and senior party leaders from various states.

'This is not monarchy': Bihar CM's jibe at Rabri over govt bungalow

'This is not monarchy': Bihar CM's jibe at Rabri over govt bungalow

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary criticised the RJD regarding the allotment of government bungalows, referencing the dispute over Rabri Devi's residence.

Cross-voting blow to BJP, JD-S as Cong wins 5 of 7 Karnataka MLC seats

Cross-voting blow to BJP, JD-S as Cong wins 5 of 7 Karnataka MLC seats

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

In the first electoral battle since the new government under Chief Minister D K Shivakumar took charge in Karnataka, the ruling Congress on Thursday won five of the seven Legislative Council seats that went to polls, while the opposition Bhjaratiya Janata Party bagged two.

'Picture abhi baaki hain': Shinde warns Uddhav, signals fresh exodus

'Picture abhi baaki hain': Shinde warns Uddhav, signals fresh exodus

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

In an apparent reference to the buzz of six rebel Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray MPs switching sides, Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday said this is just a trailer and the movie is yet to come, indicating more defections could be in offing in the rival faction.

Nitish retains trusted aide Sanjay Jha in JD-U revamp, keeps son out

Nitish retains trusted aide Sanjay Jha in JD-U revamp, keeps son out

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar has announced a new list of national office bearers for the party, including a vice president and 11 general secretaries. The list does not include Kumar's son Nishant. Sanjay Kumar Jha remains the national working president.

Is Modi Planning To Shuffle Ministers?

Is Modi Planning To Shuffle Ministers?

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Recent BJP organisational moves and Rajya Sabha nominations have sparked speculation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may soon undertake a ministerial reshuffle.

JD-U veteran KC Tyagi ends long association with party

JD-U veteran KC Tyagi ends long association with party

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Senior JD(U) leader K C Tyagi has resigned from the party after a long association, stating his commitment to ideological principles and respect for Nitish Kumar remain unchanged. He plans to decide his future course of action soon.

Shiv Sena at 60: Uddhav group fights for existence, Shinde's for relevance

Shiv Sena at 60: Uddhav group fights for existence, Shinde's for relevance

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

As the Shiv Sena marks 60 years, political experts highlight the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction's existential crisis and the Eknath Shinde-led group's struggle for relevance in the face of a dominant BJP, a significant shift from the party's historical 'elder brother' status in Maharashtra.

Nitish Kumar Takes Oath As Rajya Sabha MP

Nitish Kumar Takes Oath As Rajya Sabha MP

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

On Friday, April 10, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan administered the oath to Nitish Kumar as Bihar's elected Rajya Sabha MP at Parliament House, New Delhi.

J'khand: Cross-voting rocks INDIA bloc, hands RS win to NDA-backed candidate

J'khand: Cross-voting rocks INDIA bloc, hands RS win to NDA-backed candidate

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Amid cross-voting, National Democratic Alliance-supported Independent candidate Parimal Nathwani on Thursday won one of the two Rajya Sabha seats in Jharkhand, defeating the Congress's Pranav Jha, an official said.

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Mr Pradhan is not an especially charismatic leader or a brilliant orator, but his understanding of realpolitik and organisational dynamics makes him the ultimate party man, points out Aditi Phadnis.

Nitish's son among 32 new ministers to join Bihar govt

Nitish's son among 32 new ministers to join Bihar govt

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Bihar cabinet has expanded significantly with 32 new ministers taking oath, including Nishant Kumar, son of JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar. The expansion includes representatives from all five NDA constituents in the state.

Uddhav gets emotional, offers to quit as party chief amid MPs' revolt

Uddhav gets emotional, offers to quit as party chief amid MPs' revolt

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Facing revolt by 6 Lok Sabha MPs of his party, Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said he was ready to quit his post if the party didn't have faith in him, while his opponent and Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde hinted at more defections from the rival camp.

Suspended GRP constable lynched by mob over rape attempt in Odisha

Suspended GRP constable lynched by mob over rape attempt in Odisha

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A man was beaten to death and another critically injured by a mob for allegedly sexually assaulting two women on the outskirts of the city on Thursday, following which Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi asked the police to ensure no repeat of such incidents in future.