News for 'Karnataka politics'

BJP rejig: Smriti Irani makes comeback, Ram Madhav gets key role

BJP rejig: Smriti Irani makes comeback, Ram Madhav gets key role

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a significant overhaul of its national team under party president Nitin Nabin, introducing numerous new faces and promoting prominent leaders like former Union minister Smriti Irani to general secretary and former RSS functionary Ram Madhav to vice president. The revamp aims to balance youth and experience while preparing for upcoming assembly and general elections.

SC to review anti-defection law's 'deemed merger' clause

SC to review anti-defection law's 'deemed merger' clause

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea by senior advocate Kapil Sibal challenging the interpretation of the Tenth Schedule's 'deemed merger' provision, which allows MLAs and MPs to avoid disqualification under the anti-defection law, citing its 'huge repercussions on our polity'.

'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.'

P V Sindhu: 'I Am Coming At The Top Of My Game'

P V Sindhu: 'I Am Coming At The Top Of My Game'

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

'Frankly, I'm in that zone for another Olympics.'

Siddaramaiah declines Rajya Sabha seat, to complete term as MLA

Siddaramaiah declines Rajya Sabha seat, to complete term as MLA

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Siddaramaiah has resigned from his position as Chief Minister of Karnataka, following instructions from the Congress high command. D K Shivakumar is expected to succeed him. The decision follows internal discussions and political manoeuvring within the Congress party.

BJP slams Congress's 'double standards' for disrupting Parliament

BJP slams Congress's 'double standards' for disrupting Parliament

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The BJP has accused the Congress and its INDIA bloc allies of deliberately disrupting the Monsoon Session of Parliament, alleging that their conduct has prevented discussions on key Bills and exposed the Opposition's 'double standards' on issues such as paper leaks and student protests.

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Education sector experts agree that using the "best technology" was essential to ensure students did not have to sit for an examination all over again because of a question paper leak.

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.

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Congress escalated its campaign against alleged examination irregularities by marching to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, transforming the issue into a direct challenge to his political authority and demanding the resignations of top government officials.

Pawar-Shinde meeting leaves Uddhav Sena 'disturbed, hurt'

Pawar-Shinde meeting leaves Uddhav Sena 'disturbed, hurt'

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

A recent meeting between veteran politician Sharad Pawar and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has ignited a fierce internal conflict within the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, with Shiv Sena-UBT expressing strong disapproval and NCP-SP defending Pawar.

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Nationwide protests against the NEET paper leak have intensified across several Indian states, with demonstrators condemning the Delhi Police crackdown and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Congress party has called for further demonstrations, while various student and political groups have organised marches and sit-ins, some leading to clashes with police.

Siddaramaiah to propose Shivakumar's name for CM at CLP meet today

Siddaramaiah to propose Shivakumar's name for CM at CLP meet today

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The Congress Legislature Party is scheduled to meet to elect its new leader, who will succeed Siddaramaiah as the next Chief Minister of Karnataka. D K Shivakumar is widely expected to be elected as the new leader of the CLP.

3 yrs after Karnataka polls, Cong MLA loses votes in recount

3 yrs after Karnataka polls, Cong MLA loses votes in recount

Rediff.com3 May 2026

A recount of postal ballots in the Sringeri Assembly constituency has resulted in a reduction of votes for Congress MLA T D Raje Gowda, following a High Court order. The Election Commission has been notified for further action.

21 Karnataka Cong MLAs fly abroad amid power tussle

21 Karnataka Cong MLAs fly abroad amid power tussle

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

At least 21 Congress legislators in Karnataka have departed for a foreign tour ahead of the state budget presentation, fueling speculation amid ongoing power dynamics within the ruling party.

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Union minister J P Nadda on Wednesday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of playing politics over the NEET paper leak and urged the Opposition to allow an "intensive" discussion on the issue in Parliament to find a "permanent solution" to the problem, instead of indulging in a blame game.

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

'We can integrate AI and tech into education, but that is just a means and not an end.' 'Ultimately, we need to control what happens in a classroom and we need to let teachers innovate their teaching style to suit the needs of Gen Z and beyond.'

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has intensified his demand for the RSS to register itself and disclose its financial dealings, arguing that the organisation cannot wield significant social and political influence while simultaneously claiming no political agenda and evading public accountability. Kharge's remarks follow RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's rejection of such calls, with Bhagwat asserting the organisation is neither secretive nor operating outside public scrutiny.

Bhagwant Mann Slams Centre Over ED Raids, Alleges Political Vendetta

Bhagwant Mann Slams Centre Over ED Raids, Alleges Political Vendetta

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the BJP-led central government of playing 'dangerous games' with Punjab, alleging the misuse of agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the CBI for political purposes.

Karnataka bypoll: Cong retains two assembly seats despite power tussle

Karnataka bypoll: Cong retains two assembly seats despite power tussle

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Ruling Congress in Karnataka on Monday retained Bagalkot and Davanagere South assembly seats, giving a respite to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the party leadership, amid the ongoing power tussle over the leadership issue.

'Hindu Dharma is not registered': Bhagwat on demand to register RSS

'Hindu Dharma is not registered': Bhagwat on demand to register RSS

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has firmly rejected demands for the organisation to register itself, asserting that the Sangh operates openly and has nothing to hide. Responding to Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge's call for registration, Bhagwat stated that such demands are politically motivated and that the government is well aware of the RSS's existence and activities.

9 Doctors Who Became Leaders

9 Doctors Who Became Leaders

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

On Doctors' Day this week let's turn the spotlight onto doctors who decided to become leaders.

Welfare Spending Pushes Four States Into Red

Welfare Spending Pushes Four States Into Red

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Election-related freebies and populist measures are other factors crimping the revenue profile of these states.

Karnataka varsity defies govt ban, holds event on Deendayal Upadhyay

Karnataka varsity defies govt ban, holds event on Deendayal Upadhyay

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Despite a government ban, Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) in Mysuru proceeded with a lecture series on RSS ideologue Deendayal Upadhyay, featuring virtual and physical attendance by high-profile figures, sparking political controversy and raising questions about university autonomy and ideological influence.

One Nation One Election rollout possible by 2029: Panel chief

One Nation One Election rollout possible by 2029: Panel chief

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

A parliamentary committee is actively working to establish a mechanism for implementing the 'One Nation, One Election' reform, with its chairperson, PP Chaudhary, indicating that it could be fully operational by the 2029 general elections. Chaudhary highlighted that nearly 99 per cent of civil society stakeholders consulted have supported the proposal, which aims to mitigate an estimated Rs 7 lakh crore economic loss due to frequent polls.

VB G RAM G Faces Monsoon Test

VB G RAM G Faces Monsoon Test

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

As MGNREGA comes to a close, both critics and supporters keenly eye VB G RAM G's performance.

Who Will Lord Ram Bestow His Blessings On In UP Polls?

Who Will Lord Ram Bestow His Blessings On In UP Polls?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The monsoon session of Parliament will set the tone for how the Hindu community feels about what happened at the Ram Mandir. Whether emotions will be stirred within the voters of India lies solely at the oratory skills of the Congressis and Samajwadis, notes Zainab Sikander.

Siddaramaiah announces resignation at breakfast meet with ministers

Siddaramaiah announces resignation at breakfast meet with ministers

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has informed his cabinet colleagues of his decision to step down, according to official sources. The move comes after the Congress high command reportedly asked him to make way for a leadership change in the state, potentially offering him a central role in the party.

Cong moves Odisha MLAs to Karnataka ahead of RS polls

Cong moves Odisha MLAs to Karnataka ahead of RS polls

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Congress party in Odisha has moved its MLAs to Karnataka due to concerns about cross-voting in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections. Meanwhile, the BJD has called for meetings of its legislators.

Will sons of Kharge, Sidda be included in Shivakumar's Cabinet?

Will sons of Kharge, Sidda be included in Shivakumar's Cabinet?

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

The new Cabinet in Karnataka led by chief minister-designate D K Shivakumar is likely to be a small one with 10-14 ministers including some young faces, sources said on Tuesday. The top Congress leadership on Tuesday held day-long deliberations with outgoing chief minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar on giving final shape to the new cabinet in the state.

RS poll: MP Cong to move MLAs to K'taka amid poaching fears

RS poll: MP Cong to move MLAs to K'taka amid poaching fears

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The Congress party is reportedly considering moving its Madhya Pradesh MLAs to a party-ruled state, likely Karnataka, ahead of the June 18 Rajya Sabha elections. This move aims to prevent potential cross-voting after the BJP fielded a surprise third candidate, intensifying the contest for three Rajya Sabha seats.

Minister's exit rocks Shivakumar govt; damage control begins

Minister's exit rocks Shivakumar govt; damage control begins

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy has resigned from his ministerial position in the newly formed Shivakumar government in Karnataka, expressing strong displeasure over the portfolio allocated to him. He had sought the Bengaluru Development portfolio but was given Major and Medium Irrigation projects, leading to a significant setback for the new administration.

New CM Shivakumar battles discontent over portfolio allocation

New CM Shivakumar battles discontent over portfolio allocation

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Karnataka Minister K H Muniyappa has publicly voiced his dissatisfaction with the portfolio allocation in the new D K Shivakumar government, citing a lack of consideration for seniority. He urged the Congress leadership to review the assignments, highlighting his preference for portfolios like Social Welfare or Agriculture, and noted that another senior minister, Ramalinga Reddy, also resigned over the issue.

Vijay breaks protocol, spontaneous public engagement goes viral

Vijay breaks protocol, spontaneous public engagement goes viral

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay recently broke from protocol by stopping his convoy on the East Coast Road to interact directly with the public, an event that quickly went viral. This follows another recent viral moment where he was seen driving his own SUV to a temple in Karnataka.

Karnataka Govt to Probe KPSC Exam Irregularities

Karnataka Govt to Probe KPSC Exam Irregularities

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Karnataka Minister G Parameshwara announced the government will investigate alleged irregularities in the KPSC Mains examination and selection process following complaints of unfair practices.

Siddaramaiah all set to step down, holds breakfast meet

Siddaramaiah all set to step down, holds breakfast meet

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Amidst growing speculation about a potential leadership change in Karnataka, senior Congress leaders are meeting to discuss the future of the state government. The meeting follows months of rumours regarding a transition, with D K Shivakumar potentially succeeding Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister.

Siddaramaiah seeks guv's appointment, to make way for Shivakumar

Siddaramaiah seeks guv's appointment, to make way for Shivakumar

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is likely to resign, potentially paving the way for his deputy DK Shivakumar to take over. The move follows reported pressure from the Congress high command, though the party has denied any official decision. Speculation is rife as political tensions rise in the state.

Karnataka Govt to Probe KPSC Exam Irregularities

Karnataka Govt to Probe KPSC Exam Irregularities

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The Karnataka government has promised to investigate alleged irregularities in the KPSC Mains examination and selection process following complaints of unfair practices.

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A father and daughter have been arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly defrauding over 40 job seekers of more than Rs 5.30 crore by promising them government jobs through fake connections and training centres.

'An Idle Siddaramaiah Is Dangerous'

'An Idle Siddaramaiah Is Dangerous'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'It all depends on how Shivakumar uses him and treats him.'

Rahul Gandhi turns 56, PM Modi wishes him 'good health, long life'

Rahul Gandhi turns 56, PM Modi wishes him 'good health, long life'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi received birthday wishes from across the political spectrum as he turned 56, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and various INDIA bloc leaders extending their greetings and praising his dedication to democratic values and the welfare of the marginalised.