News for 'Media and Elections'

BJP MLA Criticises Mamata Banerjee After Meeting CM Adhikari

BJP MLA Criticises Mamata Banerjee After Meeting CM Adhikari

Rediff.com27 May 2026

BJP MLA Ratna Debnath, mother of the RG Kar rape-murder victim, met West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and criticised TMC leader Mamata Banerjee over her election loss, linking it to her fight for justice in her daughter's case.

Key Accused In Rath Murder Case Arrested By CBI

Key Accused In Rath Murder Case Arrested By CBI

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Gyanendra Pratap Singh alias Monu, a history-sheeter from Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, in connection with the murder of Chandranath Rath, a former associate of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Singh, who faces multiple criminal cases, was taken into custody from Mau jail and transported to Kolkata for further investigation.

Letter with names of TMC rebels backing BJP goes viral

Letter with names of TMC rebels backing BJP goes viral

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A significant parliamentary revolt within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has emerged, with purported signatures of 19 MPs on a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker seeking recognition as a separate bloc under Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar and extending support to the BJP-led NDA.

Will form govt with absolute majority: Vijay's TVK

Will form govt with absolute majority: Vijay's TVK

Rediff.com4 May 2026

TVK national spokesperson Felix Gerald expressed confidence that the party would form the government in Tamil Nadu with an absolute majority as initial election trends showed the party 'scaling high'.

Putin says Russia ready for Ukraine peace deal based on Trump plan

Putin says Russia ready for Ukraine peace deal based on Trump plan

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

President Vladimir Putin has declared Russia's willingness to finalise a peace agreement with Ukraine based on US President Donald Trump's Anchorage proposals, provided Kyiv accepts necessary compromises.

'Never trust them again': Udhayanidhi blames Cong for BJP wins

'Never trust them again': Udhayanidhi blames Cong for BJP wins

Rediff.com24 May 2026

DMK Youth Wing chief Udhayanidhi Stalin has launched a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing the former ally of 'stabbing the DMK in the back' and blaming them for the BJP's consecutive national victories. He exhorted party cadre to 'never trust the Congress again'.

Punjab Municipal Polls Set For May 26: Key Details

Punjab Municipal Polls Set For May 26: Key Details

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Punjab State Election Commissioner has announced that elections for 105 municipal bodies, including eight municipal corporations, will be held on May 26, with vote counting on May 29. The Model Code of Conduct is now in effect, and over 35,000 police personnel will be deployed to ensure safety.

Gunmen target Khosa's Surrey home; police suspect extortion attack

Gunmen target Khosa's Surrey home; police suspect extortion attack

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Unknown gunmen opened fire at the home of Arvinder Khosa, the newly elected president of Cricket Canada, in Surrey, Canada, according to local media reports. No injuries were reported in the incident.

Tamil Nadu Government Intensifies Efforts To Protect Children

Tamil Nadu Government Intensifies Efforts To Protect Children

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Tamil Nadu government is taking proactive measures to curb crime against children, following the sexual assault and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore. The government is focusing on strict policing, public awareness, and swift justice through fast-track courts.

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.

Amarinder Singh's Daughter Meets New Punjab BJP Chief

Amarinder Singh's Daughter Meets New Punjab BJP Chief

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Jai Inder Kaur, BJP leader and daughter of former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh, met newly appointed state BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon to congratulate him on his appointment. The meeting is significant given Amarinder Singh's earlier concerns about Dhillon's appointment.

Bhagwant Mann Accuses Majithia Of Rowdyism, Obstruction Of Justice

Bhagwant Mann Accuses Majithia Of Rowdyism, Obstruction Of Justice

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticised Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia for allegedly storming into a police station in Amritsar to forcibly release a detainee.

Deleted votes exceeded victory margins on 31 seats: TMC in SC

Deleted votes exceeded victory margins on 31 seats: TMC in SC

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Supreme Court has allowed former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and others to file fresh applications regarding their claim that victory margins were less than the deletion of votes during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

'Sense of envy' says Pawan Kalyan in obvious reference to TN CM Vijay

'Sense of envy' says Pawan Kalyan in obvious reference to TN CM Vijay

Rediff.com26 May 2026

In an indirect reference to the meteoric rise of actor-politician C Joseph Vijay as chief minister in his maiden election in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has said he sometimes wonders how some political forces achieve success in a short span, admitting that their rapid progress leaves him with a "sense of envy".

In Norway, India rejects allegations of violation of human rights

In Norway, India rejects allegations of violation of human rights

Rediff.com20 May 2026

India has reiterated its commitment to human rights and democracy following criticism from a Norwegian newspaper commentator during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Norway.

Akhilesh cuts ties with I-PAC for 2027 UP Polls

Akhilesh cuts ties with I-PAC for 2027 UP Polls

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The Samajwadi Party has ended its association with the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) due to a lack of funds, according to party president Akhilesh Yadav.

'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.'

BJP's Assam Sweep Redrew Political Map

BJP's Assam Sweep Redrew Political Map

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The 2026 election appears to have reinforced a new political formula in Assam: Strong organisation, continuous grassroots engagement, effective alliance management and welfare-based voter outreach.

SC raps politicians over 'irresponsible' remarks in Shiv Sena symbol row

SC raps politicians over 'irresponsible' remarks in Shiv Sena symbol row

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed strong displeasure over statements made by politicians regarding the Shiv Sena symbol row case, cautioning them about making irresponsible comments.

After assembly revolt, TMC stares at rebellion in Parliament

After assembly revolt, TMC stares at rebellion in Parliament

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Veteran Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Roy has suggested that the rebellion within the Trinamool Congress (TMC)'s legislative wing could extend to its Members of Parliament, following an unprecedented revolt by MLAs and the party's recent electoral defeat in West Bengal.

Petrol tops Rs 100 across most cities, diesel nears Rs 100 as prices raised for 4th time

Petrol tops Rs 100 across most cities, diesel nears Rs 100 as prices raised for 4th time

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Petrol and diesel prices in India have seen their fourth increase in less than two weeks, pushing cumulative hikes to nearly Rs 7.5 per litre since May 15, reaching their highest levels since May 2022. This surge, driven by global crude oil costs and the Iran conflict, is expected to exacerbate inflationary pressures and raise transportation costs across the economy.

Jolt to Vijay as AIADMK refuses to back TVK in govt formation

Jolt to Vijay as AIADMK refuses to back TVK in govt formation

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The AIADMK has stated it will not support the TVK in forming a government in Tamil Nadu, dismissing reports of a potential post-poll alliance.

Is Mourinho returning to Real Madrid? Perez opens up

Is Mourinho returning to Real Madrid? Perez opens up

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez rejected resignation rumours, addressed Jose Mourinho speculation and defended his leadership after a chaotic, trophyless season for the Spanish giants.

Bangladesh to hold crucial general elections on Thursday

Bangladesh to hold crucial general elections on Thursday

Rediff.com11 Feb 2026

Bangladesh is set to hold parliamentary elections with unprecedented security measures in place, following a period of interim governance and political changes.

'Himanta Biswa Sarma Is the Answer': Sushmita Dev

'Himanta Biswa Sarma Is the Answer': Sushmita Dev

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

'It's a bit uncertain. Let's see what happens. But he is the top man of Assam, and since my politics is in Assam, I thought it's best to seek his guidance before I take any decision.'

Kerala: Biryani, laddoos prepared for poll results day

Kerala: Biryani, laddoos prepared for poll results day

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Political parties in Kerala are making preparations for celebrations as the Assembly election results are set to be announced. Congress and UDF workers are preparing food and cultural programmes, while the BJP is also planning celebrations with laddoos and placards.

I will likely be arrested at Delhi airport: Cockroach Janta Party founder

I will likely be arrested at Delhi airport: Cockroach Janta Party founder

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, expresses concerns about potential arrest upon his return to India, but remains committed to protesting against the Union Education Minister over alleged shortcomings in the education system.

'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.'

Cracks in TMC? Senior MP quits party post, takes swipe at I-PAC

Cracks in TMC? Senior MP quits party post, takes swipe at I-PAC

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Senior TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has resigned as the Barasat organisational district president, taking 'moral responsibility' for the party's poor performance in the recent West Bengal assembly polls. Her resignation letter and subsequent comments sharply criticised the party's campaign strategy, the influence of election strategist I-PAC, and alleged criminalisation within the party, calling for a return to 'street politics' and engagement with 'honest, old and dedicated workers'.

AIADMK alleges horse trading as 3 rebel MLAs join Vijay's party

AIADMK alleges horse trading as 3 rebel MLAs join Vijay's party

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Three All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam legislators who were part of the rebel group led by C Ve Shanmugam and SP Velumani, met Tamil Nadu assembly Speaker JC D Prabhakar on Monday and tendered their resignation.

'Every Political Party Will Be BJP-ised'

'Every Political Party Will Be BJP-ised'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

'Look at the way SIR that was implemented in Bengal. They wanted to entirely curate the voter list in order to suit their purposes and victory.' 'Look at the targeted deletions and the targeted voting list.' 'The difference between the TMC and the BJP was only about 4% but that 4% vote was done so selectively that the difference ultimately showed up as 100 seats!'

TMC's 'Pushpa' Jahangir withdraws from May 21 repoll after 'CM's promise'

TMC's 'Pushpa' Jahangir withdraws from May 21 repoll after 'CM's promise'

Rediff.com19 May 2026

TMC's Falta candidate Jahangir Khan withdrew from the May 21 re-election, citing Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's promise of a special development package for the area.

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Rediff.com22 May 2026

AM Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu from IUML and VCK respectively were sworn in as ministers in Tamil Nadu, increasing the number of allies in the TVK government. This marks the first time representatives from both parties have been inducted into the state cabinet, signifying a shift in Tamil Nadu's coalition dynamics.

Governor dissolves Bengal assembly amid Mamata's refusal to resign

Governor dissolves Bengal assembly amid Mamata's refusal to resign

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The West Bengal State Legislative Assembly has been dissolved by Governor R N Ravi, marking the end of its term after the recent elections where the Trinamool Congress was defeated by the BJP.

TMC Claims Workers Attacked In Post-Poll Violence In West Bengal

TMC Claims Workers Attacked In Post-Poll Violence In West Bengal

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The TMC has dispatched fact-finding teams to investigate alleged post-poll violence against its workers in West Bengal, accusing BJP-backed individuals of carrying out attacks and intimidation.

Trans Tamil immigrant wins Scotland poll, sparks debate

Trans Tamil immigrant wins Scotland poll, sparks debate

Rediff.com11 May 2026

An Indian doctoral student from Tamil Nadu, Q Manivannan, has sparked a debate on immigration and representation in UK politics after winning a local election in Scotland. Manivannan's victory has drawn criticism from anti-immigration voices, highlighting the rules that allow foreign nationals to contest elections in Scotland.

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah addressed parliament on the ongoing border dispute with India, stating both countries have agreed to seek resolution through diplomatic means and expert consultation. Shah's remarks about Nepal also encroaching on Indian territories have sparked controversy.

BJP win 'immoral': Mamata claims over 100 seats were looted

BJP win 'immoral': Mamata claims over 100 seats were looted

Rediff.com5 May 2026

TMC leader Mamata Banerjee has criticised the BJP's victory in the West Bengal state elections, calling it 'immoral' and alleging that the mandate in over 100 seats was 'looted'. She also criticised the Election Commission's role.

SP Leader Azam Khan Sentenced To Jail For Remarks Against Officials

SP Leader Azam Khan Sentenced To Jail For Remarks Against Officials

Rediff.com16 May 2026

A court in Uttar Pradesh sentenced Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan to two years in jail for making objectionable remarks against government officials during the 2019 Lok Sabha poll campaign.

US, Iran forces clash near Strait of Hormuz amid ceasefire

US, Iran forces clash near Strait of Hormuz amid ceasefire

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Iranian media reported an exchange of fire between Iranian and US forces near the Strait of Hormuz, amidst a shaky ceasefire between the two countries.