News for 'Minister of State'

Social Media Threat To Karnataka Minister: One Arrested

Social Media Threat To Karnataka Minister: One Arrested

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

A 48-year-old man has been arrested in Karkala, Karnataka, for allegedly posting derogatory casteist comments and issuing a death threat against Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on social media. The accused was taken into custody after a complaint detailed abusive remarks made on a Facebook post.

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

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.

Family of 15-yr-old girl who abused Modi untraceable

Family of 15-yr-old girl who abused Modi untraceable

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The family of a 15-year-old girl, whose alleged abusive remarks against PM Modi went viral, is untraceable from their Noida residence. Local police deny receiving harassment complaints, while the family had previously appealed to the PM for forgiveness and claimed police visits.

'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.

Tamil Nadu Government Funds Chennai Open's Return

Tamil Nadu Government Funds Chennai Open's Return

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Chennai Open, a WTA 250 tennis tournament, is scheduled to return in November after the Tamil Nadu government allocated Rs 10 crore for its conduct. The event, which was absent in 2023 and 2024, will be held at the SDAT Tennis Stadium.

Wangchuk intervenes as 5 more join Mahato in Jharkhand hunger strike over exam irregularities

Wangchuk intervenes as 5 more join Mahato in Jharkhand hunger strike over exam irregularities

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk urged Devendra Nath Mahto, who is on a hunger strike against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment examinations, to drink water, which Mahto heeded. This comes as other protesters also began an indefinite hunger strike, intensifying demands for the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission examination and a CBI inquiry.

Why Mirabai Chanu Should Receive The Arjuna Award

Why Mirabai Chanu Should Receive The Arjuna Award

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav has written to Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, recommending Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu for the Arjuna Award. Despite having received higher honours like the Khel Ratna and Padma Shri, Chanu's childhood dream of the Arjuna Award remains unfulfilled, and Jadhav believes it would be a fitting recognition of her contributions to Indian sport.

Shakib ready to return to Bangladesh, but sets big condition

Shakib ready to return to Bangladesh, but sets big condition

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Bangladeshi cricket legend Shakib Al Hasan, an ally of ousted PM Sheikh Hasina, is willing to return from exile in the US to face charges, including murder, if the government guarantees his safety. He hopes to play a farewell series and represent Bangladesh in the 2027 World Cup, highlighting the challenges faced by Hasina's allies after her government's fall.

From 'Generation Gutter' to 'India's Strength': Kangana's U-turn on Gen Z

From 'Generation Gutter' to 'India's Strength': Kangana's U-turn on Gen Z

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut has made a significant U-turn, praising Gen Z as India's biggest strength and ambassadors of culture, days after controversially labelling them 'generation gutter.' Her new stance aligns with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent comments advocating for hearing out young protesters.

Apologise in 3 days or...: Zuckerberg warned over PM video removal

Apologise in 3 days or...: Zuckerberg warned over PM video removal

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

An Indian Parliamentary standing committee has demanded an apology from Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg within three days for the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video from Facebook, threatening to withdraw immunity under the IT Act if he fails to comply. The committee also pushed for government action against Google India regarding financial fraud.

SC grants anticipatory bail to DMK's Senthil Balaji in TASMAC corruption case

SC grants anticipatory bail to DMK's Senthil Balaji in TASMAC corruption case

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has granted anticipatory bail to DMK leader and former minister V Senthil Balaji in a fresh corruption case related to alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), with conditions including cooperation with the investigation and depositing his passport.

ED Raids Linked To Andhra Liquor Scam, Former Minister's Son Under Scanner

ED Raids Linked To Andhra Liquor Scam, Former Minister's Son Under Scanner

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested a former Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Ltd. official and a "prime accused" in connection with a fresh money laundering case related to an alleged Rs 195-crore liquor transport scam. Raids were conducted at multiple premises, including those linked to a former minister.

ED Raids Linked To Andhra Liquor Scam, Former Minister's Son Under Scanner

ED Raids Linked To Andhra Liquor Scam, Former Minister's Son Under Scanner

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested a former Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Ltd. official and a "prime accused" in connection with a fresh money laundering case related to an alleged Rs 195-crore liquor transport scam. Raids were conducted at multiple premises, including those linked to a former minister.

'Extremely ashamed': Girl who abused Modi apologises

'Extremely ashamed': Girl who abused Modi apologises

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

A 15-year-old girl, who appeared in a viral video abusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has issued an apology, claiming she was "influenced" by a group at Jantar Mantar. She expressed embarrassment and shame, appealing for forgiveness. The apology follows a police complaint, and Delhi Police are investigating the matter, having also issued notices to social media platform X for content removal. PM Modi himself commented on the incident, advocating for forgiveness for "misguided children."

Bihar Minister's Vehicle Pelted With Stones During Condolence Visit

Bihar Minister's Vehicle Pelted With Stones During Condolence Visit

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Bihar Labour Resources Minister Arun Shankar Prasad's vehicle was pelted with stones in Madhubani district while he was visiting an accident victim's family. The minister was unharmed, but the vehicle's windshield was damaged. Police have identified suspects and launched an investigation.

'BJP Feels They Can Get Away With Anything'

'BJP Feels They Can Get Away With Anything'

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

'I remember that Indira Gandhi was virtually worshipped as a goddess. The kind of power wielded by Indira Gandhi in the early 1970s was much more than what Modi does today, but in just three years down the line Indira Gandhi faced defeat.' 'So you cannot take people's sentiments for granted. That is a lesson that the BJP should learn.'

Modi video removal: IT panel wants Zuckerberg to apologise

Modi video removal: IT panel wants Zuckerberg to apologise

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

A parliamentary standing committee on Information Technology has demanded a personal apology from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg for the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video from Facebook. The committee also discussed potential legal action and the withdrawal of safe harbour protection, while questioning Meta officials on algorithmic bias and accountability.

After NEET backlash, BJP turns to Instagram to win back young voters

After NEET backlash, BJP turns to Instagram to win back young voters

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The BJP is significantly increasing its digital engagement with young people on Instagram, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several Union ministers, in response to the NEET-UG paper leak controversy and subsequent student protests. This strategic shift aims to counter the narrative and communicate government actions on examination reforms.

Jaspal Rana given emotional farewell in Varanasi with full state honours

Jaspal Rana given emotional farewell in Varanasi with full state honours

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Hundreds gathered in Varanasi with tearful eyes on Saturday to bid a final farewell to India's shooting legend Jaspal Rana, whose mortal remains were flown in by air ambulance from Dehradun.

'Blue jersey is to India as yellow jersey is to Brazil'

'Blue jersey is to India as yellow jersey is to Brazil'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed strong "anguish" over the Indian hockey team's decision to change its traditional blue jersey to saffron for the upcoming FIH World Cup. Patnaik, whose state government previously sponsored the team, criticised the move as "petty politics" and an attempt to erase sporting legacy, alleging pressure from the BJP government in Odisha. Hockey India stated the saffron colour symbolises courage, sacrifice, and new beginnings, inspired by the national flag.

Rajasthan Minister Booked For Allegedly Abusing, Threatening Police

Rajasthan Minister Booked For Allegedly Abusing, Threatening Police

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Rajasthan's Minister of State for Cooperation, Gautam Kumar Dak, has been booked for allegedly verbally abusing and threatening police officers in Chittorgarh. An audio clip purportedly featuring the minister abusing policemen circulated online, leading to the registration of an FIR against him.

Kejriwal to march to PM's residence on Aug 4 over E20 issue

Kejriwal to march to PM's residence on Aug 4 over E20 issue

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal is leading a march to the Prime Minister's residence to submit a petition with two lakh signatures against E20 petrol. He is demanding consumer choice, lower E20 prices, and transparency regarding studies supporting the fuel. The government defends the E20 programme, citing energy security and no evidence of vehicle harm.

'Chandra Has Taken Right Professional Decision At the Right Time'

'Chandra Has Taken Right Professional Decision At the Right Time'

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

While the latest trigger for him stepping down could be the uncertainty around his renewal as a director at the AGM, which is otherwise a routine matter, Chandra may have been contemplating quitting for some time now because of the overall turbulence with the principal shareholder on the leadership issue.

Suman Kalyanpur Laid to Rest With State Honours

Suman Kalyanpur Laid to Rest With State Honours

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Suman Kalyanpur, known for her melodious voice and soulful renditions, was laid to rest with full state honours in Mumbai.

Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka Challenge Has Begun

Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka Challenge Has Begun

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Dinesh Trivedi's success or failure in this fragile diplomatic equilibrium will have consequences extending well beyond the Indian high commission in Dhaka. It will shape India's eastern strategic environment for years to come.

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.

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The challenge thrown by the youth movement creates the opportunity for a more consequential debate on India's economic trajectory because it must remain centered on India's youth as its driving impulse, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

No regular FIR against girl who abused Modi at Delhi protest

No regular FIR against girl who abused Modi at Delhi protest

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Earlier, the girl issued an apology video on social media on Saturday saying she had been "influenced."

Struggling For Relevance, Commonwealth Games Eyes India Boost In 2030

Struggling For Relevance, Commonwealth Games Eyes India Boost In 2030

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Ahmedabad, India, has been confirmed as the host for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, a significant step in India's ambition to become a global sporting capital and potentially host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Can Fast-Track Courts Handle Paper Leak Cases?

Can Fast-Track Courts Handle Paper Leak Cases?

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

As of December 2025, India had 880 Fast-Track Courts with 1.39 million pending cases, despite disposing of 1.33 million cases during the year.

Ahmedabad to set new benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability at 2030 Commonwealth Games

Ahmedabad to set new benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability at 2030 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi has outlined Ahmedabad's vision for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, emphasising unparalleled accessibility for para athletes and a strong commitment to sustainability through green energy and electric transport.

BSP's lone UP legislator Umashankar Singh dies at 55

BSP's lone UP legislator Umashankar Singh dies at 55

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Umashankar Singh, the Bahujan Samaj Party's sole MLA in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly from the Rasra constituency, has passed away at the age of 55 after a prolonged illness. Political leaders, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP president Mayawati, and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, have expressed their condolences.

Case against woman for raising slogans targeting Modi transferred to Delhi

Case against woman for raising slogans targeting Modi transferred to Delhi

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

A Zero FIR filed in Noida against a woman for allegedly using objectionable slogans targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a protest at Jantar Mantar has been transferred to Delhi Police for further investigation. The complaint alleges the remarks were abusive, lowered the PM's dignity, and could disturb public peace. The case involves sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to intentional insult, public mischief, and criminal defamation.

Rajasthan Teachers Face Action Over Minister Protest

Rajasthan Teachers Face Action Over Minister Protest

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Several teachers in Kota have been booked for allegedly holding an unauthorised demonstration against Rajasthan's Education Minister, including burning his effigy and raising slogans.

Assam floods: Over 6.5 lakh people affected; toll rises to 66

Assam floods: Over 6.5 lakh people affected; toll rises to 66

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The flood situation in Assam is showing signs of improvement with receding water levels, though over 6.5 lakh people across six districts remain affected and the death toll has risen to 66. Relief operations are being intensified, with central and state leaders reviewing measures and a central team assessing damages.

Kerala Minister Sunny Joseph Defends Brother-in-Law's Appointment

Kerala Minister Sunny Joseph Defends Brother-in-Law's Appointment

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Kerala Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph has defended the appointment of his brother-in-law, Benny Thomas, as his Additional Private Secretary, citing Thomas's public service record and political experience. The appointment has sparked controversy, with the opposition CPI(M) accusing the minister of nepotism and hypocrisy, demanding his resignation.

Payments Council Confirms UPI Will Remain Free For Consumers And Small Merchants

Payments Council Confirms UPI Will Remain Free For Consumers And Small Merchants

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Payments Council of India has confirmed that Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services will continue to be free for consumers and small merchants, despite a recent Lok Sabha Bill. This clarification addresses concerns about potential charges, emphasising that while a sustainable financial model for UPI infrastructure is being developed, transaction charges will not be passed on to users or small businesses.

HC quashes FCRA orders against two NGOs over funding Vizhinjam protests

HC quashes FCRA orders against two NGOs over funding Vizhinjam protests

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Kerala high court has set aside the Centre's decision not to renew the FCRA certificate of two NGOs, accused by central agencies of funding agitations against the Vizhinjam sea port, saying that financial support to a protest cannot be seen as diversion of foreign funds.

Gadkari gets HC nod to sue Meta, X, Google over E20 deepfakes

Gadkari gets HC nod to sue Meta, X, Google over E20 deepfakes

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has received permission from the Bombay High Court to file a civil suit against Meta Platforms, X Corp, Google LLC, and other unknown entities for allegedly circulating 'defamatory' deepfakes and AI-generated content against him.

RS okays bill to make insulting Vande Mataram a criminal offence

RS okays bill to make insulting Vande Mataram a criminal offence

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making insult to the national song 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence. The bill, which also covers other national symbols, was passed amidst protests from opposition parties regarding the NEET paper leak. Union Minister Nityanand Rai criticised the opposition's stance, emphasising the song's historical significance and its role in national unity.