News for 'Leader of Opposition'

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.com5 days ago

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.

Action Against AIMIM Leader For Harbouring Accused

Action Against AIMIM Leader For Harbouring Accused

Rediff.com11 May 2026

AIMIM leader Matin Patel faces potential cancellation of his corporatorship for allegedly harbouring Nida Khan, accused in a sexual harassment and forced conversion case. Authorities are investigating alleged illegal construction at his residence, which could lead to his disqualification under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act.

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.

INDIA bloc to write to CJI on SIR, seek Pradhan's resignation

INDIA bloc to write to CJI on SIR, seek Pradhan's resignation

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Leaders of the opposition INDIA bloc met in New Delhi on Monday and decided to write to the chief justice of India on the Special Intesive Revision exercise and "vote loot", besides demanding the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-CBSE row.

Abhishek Banerjee, Trinamool MLA quizzed in signature forgery case

Abhishek Banerjee, Trinamool MLA quizzed in signature forgery case

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee and MLA Kunal Ghosh were questioned by the CID in Kolkata regarding alleged signature forgery of MLAs for the Leader of Opposition appointment in the West Bengal Assembly. Banerjee faced a second round of interrogation as investigators were unsatisfied with previous replies, and a face-to-face interrogation with Ghosh is possible. The probe stems from discrepancies found in signatures on documents supporting Sovandeb Chattopadhyay for the post.

Opposition gears up for showdown with govt over delimitation

Opposition gears up for showdown with govt over delimitation

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The Indian government and opposition parties are set for a showdown in Parliament over a Constitution amendment bill concerning the implementation of the women's quota law and the delimitation exercise. The Opposition is concerned about the potential impact of delimitation on the political representation of southern states.

Supreme Court Closes Plea After Goa Congress Leader Dies

Supreme Court Closes Plea After Goa Congress Leader Dies

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Supreme Court closed a plea by Goa Congress leader Ketan Bhatikar, who died from a snakebite, challenging the cancellation of the Ponda assembly bypoll by the Bombay High Court.

Amit Shah luring those elected on anti-BJP plank: Cong

Amit Shah luring those elected on anti-BJP plank: Cong

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Congress party has accused Home Minister Amit Shah of launching an "onslaught" on the Opposition and "wrecking" Indian democracy. The party alleges that Shah is enticing elected representatives to join the BJP with significant incentives, a claim echoed by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut regarding Maharashtra MPs. This comes amidst reports of defections from other parties like the TMC.

ED quizzes TMC MP Abhishek for over 11 hours in school jobs scam case

ED quizzes TMC MP Abhishek for over 11 hours in school jobs scam case

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee is undergoing interrogation by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the alleged primary school recruitment scam. The ED is focusing on the money trail, financial documents, and statements from other accused, following a prior questioning session by the state CID on a separate forgery case.

Opposition to meet on Wednesday over women's quota bill strategy

Opposition to meet on Wednesday over women's quota bill strategy

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

With the three-day special sitting of Parliament on the constitution amendment bill related to the implementation of 33 percent reservation for women from the 2029 Lok Sabha polls set to begin on Thursday, a meeting of opposition parties is slated to be held on Wednesday at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

West Bengal CID visits assembly in MLA signature forgery probe

West Bengal CID visits assembly in MLA signature forgery probe

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

West Bengal CID officials visited the state Assembly as part of their ongoing investigation into the alleged forgery of MLAs' signatures for the appointment of the leader of opposition, seeking a crucial party resolution document.

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

Rediff.com5 hours ago

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh has alleged that the BJP's "real and ultimate target" in seeking a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha is to amend the Constitution to end reservation, rather than genuinely implement women's reservation.

BJP rebel stuns Mahayuti, defeats Sena nominee in Nashik council polls

BJP rebel stuns Mahayuti, defeats Sena nominee in Nashik council polls

Rediff.com2 days ago

BJP rebel Gokul Gite secured a surprising victory in Maharashtra legislative council's Nashik district local governing body constituency, defeating the ruling Shiv Sena nominee Narendra Darade by 109 votes, despite senior Mahayuti leaders' attempts to resolve his independent candidature.

TMC, Congress dismiss reports of merger talks

TMC, Congress dismiss reports of merger talks

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has dismissed "baseless" rumours of a possible merger with the Congress, despite recent meetings between TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee and Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, which occurred amidst significant internal rebellion within the TMC following its recent electoral defeat in West Bengal.

TMC Alleges Political Vendetta After Police Search Abhishek Banerjee's Residence

TMC Alleges Political Vendetta After Police Search Abhishek Banerjee's Residence

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly condemned a pre-dawn police search at MP Abhishek Banerjee's Kalighat residence in connection with an alleged financial fraud, calling it an act of political vendetta by West Bengal's BJP government. The party claims the search yielded no incriminating evidence, intensifying political confrontation in the state.

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.

Abhishek Banerjee meets Rahul Gandhi amid merger buzz

Abhishek Banerjee meets Rahul Gandhi amid merger buzz

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is facing a deepening internal crisis marked by fresh resignations and an escalating rebellion, even as its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to discuss opposition coordination and the future of the INDIA bloc.

TMC vs TMC: Meeting records from Mamata's home surface online

TMC vs TMC: Meeting records from Mamata's home surface online

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

A fresh controversy has erupted within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regarding the leadership of its legislature party, as documents purportedly from two MLA meetings on May 6 and May 19 have surfaced on social media. Rebel Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee has questioned the authenticity of these documents, which list MLAs' attendance and support for the election of the leader of the opposition, amidst ongoing allegations of signature forgery.

In historic revolt, TMC rebels oust Mamata as chairperson, install Arup Roy

In historic revolt, TMC rebels oust Mamata as chairperson, install Arup Roy

Rediff.com1 days ago

In a bid to wrest control of the Trinamool Congress, its rebel faction led by Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee on Monday elected MLA Arup Roy as chairperson, marking the sharpest challenge yet to the authority of party founder Mamata Banerjee.

Jharkhand RS elections: NDA MLAs shifted to hotel; INDIA bloc holds mock poll

Jharkhand RS elections: NDA MLAs shifted to hotel; INDIA bloc holds mock poll

Rediff.com7 days ago

Opposition NDA legislators in Jharkhand have been moved to a hotel ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections for two seats. The BJP-backed independent candidate, Parimal Nathwani, faces a challenge as the NDA lacks the required numbers, necessitating potential cross-voting for victory.

After revolt, Mamata, Abhishek return to grassroots, cuts I-PAC role

After revolt, Mamata, Abhishek return to grassroots, cuts I-PAC role

Rediff.com1 days ago

Facing a massive rebellion of MLAs and MPs after its defeat in the West Bengal assembly polls, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has begun an organisational reset, with sources saying the focus is on top leaders increasing direct engagement with workers and reducing dependence on political-consultancy firm I-PAC.

Pinarayi Vijayan Demands Urgent Measures Against Elephant Attacks

Pinarayi Vijayan Demands Urgent Measures Against Elephant Attacks

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Kerala's Leader of Opposition, Pinarayi Vijayan, has called on the state government to implement urgent measures to prevent wildlife attacks after an elephant attack killed a woman and injured her child in Idukki.

'New TMC' claims support of 64 MLAs, seeks floor test

'New TMC' claims support of 64 MLAs, seeks floor test

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee claims 64 dissident TMC MLAs have submitted their names to the Speaker, constituting over two-thirds of the party's Assembly strength, and has called for a floor test to verify their claims of support amidst a widening split within the Trinamool Congress.

Forgery probe: HC grants interim protection to Abhishek Banerjee

Forgery probe: HC grants interim protection to Abhishek Banerjee

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The Calcutta High Court has granted interim protection to TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee for three weeks in a signature forgery case related to the appointment of the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal assembly. Banerjee was directed to appear before the CID for questioning, which he complied with. The case involves allegations by rebel TMC MLAs that their signatures were forged on a party resolution, prompting a CID investigation.

'Rahul losing support within Cong': BJP cites Tharoor's remarks on Modi

'Rahul losing support within Cong': BJP cites Tharoor's remarks on Modi

Rediff.com4 days ago

The BJP has criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, citing Shashi Tharoor's praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla claimed Gandhi is losing support within his own party and among allies, questioning his leadership capabilities and prime ministerial aspirations.

23 parties to attend INDIA meet; DMK, AAP to stay away

23 parties to attend INDIA meet; DMK, AAP to stay away

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said there are some parties that have expressed their inability to attend this particular meeting for their own reasons.

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A video of an inmate from Hoshiarpur Central Jail alleging harassment and demanding money from staff has gone viral, leading to an official inquiry and a political backlash against the Punjab government.

CPM to confront Cong at INDIA meet on allegations of collusion with BJP

CPM to confront Cong at INDIA meet on allegations of collusion with BJP

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

The CPI(M) will attend the INDIA bloc meeting on Monday, with its MP John Brittas expected to raise concerns about allegations made by Congress leaders during the Kerala Assembly elections. The Left party is awaiting a clarification from the Congress regarding claims of a CPI(M)-BJP understanding, which it views as inconsistent with alliance cooperation.

RS, LS reject Opposition motion to remove CEC Gyanesh Kumar

RS, LS reject Opposition motion to remove CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Rajya Sabha Chairman and Lok Sabha Speaker reject opposition notices to remove Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing insufficient grounds.

Sometimes Trump and I don't see eye to eye: Netanyahu

Sometimes Trump and I don't see eye to eye: Netanyahu

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his actions amid growing resentment over an emerging US-Iran deal, asserting that Iran would never possess nuclear weapons. He faced criticism from opposition figures like Naftali Bennett and addressed concerns about Israel's security zones and relations with the US.

TMC's paradox: Anti-BJP in Kolkata, pro-NDA in New Delhi

TMC's paradox: Anti-BJP in Kolkata, pro-NDA in New Delhi

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The TMC is grappling with an extraordinary internal paradox as its legislative faction in West Bengal pledges 'constructive opposition' against the BJP, while a significant portion of its Lok Sabha MPs surprisingly aligns with the BJP-led NDA, exposing a profound ideological schism within the party.

Mamata in Delhi for INDIA bloc huddle amid split scare, meets Kejriwal

Mamata in Delhi for INDIA bloc huddle amid split scare, meets Kejriwal

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

23 political parties of the INDIA bloc will meet on Monday to redraw their strategy to take on the BJP and iron out differences amid changed power dynamics after the defeat of regional anchors TMC and DMK in the recent assembly polls.

Bengal Cong divided over merger talks with Trinamool

Bengal Cong divided over merger talks with Trinamool

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Speculation about a possible rapprochement or merger between the Congress and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has exposed deep divisions within the Congress's West Bengal unit, with senior state leaders vocally opposing any alliance with Mamata Banerjee.

Bengal LoP row: Mamata-led TMC moves HC against Speaker's decision

Bengal LoP row: Mamata-led TMC moves HC against Speaker's decision

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The Trinamool Congress has moved the Calcutta High Court to challenge the West Bengal Assembly Speaker's decision to recognise Ritabrata Banerjee as the Leader of Opposition, citing that 58 of its 80 MLAs supported him over the party's official nominee. The court has scheduled an urgent hearing for June 11, ahead of the 18th Assembly session starting June 18.

UK Leaders Condemn Antisemitic Stabbing Attack In London

UK Leaders Condemn Antisemitic Stabbing Attack In London

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other UK leaders have condemned an antisemitic attack in Golders Green, London, where two men were stabbed near a synagogue. Counter-Terror officers are investigating the incident.

Abhishek Banerjee Faces Second CID Questioning In Signature Forgery Probe

Abhishek Banerjee Faces Second CID Questioning In Signature Forgery Probe

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

West Bengal CID has issued fresh summons to TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee for a second round of questioning in an alleged signature forgery case. Investigators were reportedly dissatisfied with his previous responses regarding a disputed resolution submitted to the Assembly. The probe focuses on the authenticity of documents and signatures of legislators.

'Samajwadi Party Isn't Breaking Up Like TMC Or Shiv Sena (UBT)'

'Samajwadi Party Isn't Breaking Up Like TMC Or Shiv Sena (UBT)'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Political tensions are escalating in Uttar Pradesh as Samajwadi Party leaders strongly refute Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party chief Om Prakash Rajbhar's assertions of an impending split within the SP.

'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.

CPI(M) Alleges Sabotage In Sabarimala Gold Case Over Lawyer Appointment

CPI(M) Alleges Sabotage In Sabarimala Gold Case Over Lawyer Appointment

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Congress-led UDF government's decision to appoint a defence lawyer for the accused in the Sabarimala gold loss case as a Devaswom advocate has drawn strong criticism from the opposition CPI(M), which alleges the move is an attempt to sabotage the ongoing probe and protect political figures.

Kerala's PM SHRI Scheme: LDF Accuses UDF Of Misinformation And Double Standards

Kerala's PM SHRI Scheme: LDF Accuses UDF Of Misinformation And Double Standards

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Senior CPI(M) leader V Sivankutty has criticised the Kerala UDF government for allegedly spreading misinformation about the Centre's PM SHRI scheme and attempting to implement it despite earlier opposition. He clarified that the previous LDF government froze the agreement over concerns about the National Education Policy and that funds received were not for PM SHRI. The scheme continues to be a politically contentious issue in the state.