News for 'Minister of State'

BJP-SAD to reunite? Badal backs delimitation bill after Modi meet

BJP-SAD to reunite? Badal backs delimitation bill after Modi meet

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has called for the immediate passage of the women's reservation bill and the delimitation bill, advocating for a uniform 50 per cent increase in seats for all states to ensure fair and equitable representation.

Nathuram, Gopal Godse were 'active RSS workers': Savarkar's grandnephew

Nathuram, Gopal Godse were 'active RSS workers': Savarkar's grandnephew

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Congress party has demanded that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) clarify its stance on Mahatma Gandhi's assassin, Nathuram Godse, being an RSS member. This demand follows a court statement by Satyaki Savarkar, V D Savarkar's grandnephew, who testified that Nathuram Godse and his brother Gopal Godse were "active workers" of the RSS. The statement was made during a defamation complaint hearing filed by Satyaki Savarkar against Rahul Gandhi.

CWC plans to corner govt on student protests, Ram Temple fund issues

CWC plans to corner govt on student protests, Ram Temple fund issues

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) is set to meet to discuss the political situation in India, focusing on strategies to pressure the government regarding student issues, alleged embezzlement at the Ram temple, and upcoming Assembly elections. The meeting will also address the women's reservation bill.

Jharkhand paper leak protests continue as talks with govt fail

Jharkhand paper leak protests continue as talks with govt fail

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Protesting aspirants in Jharkhand have vowed to continue their agitation over alleged paper leaks in recruitment exams, despite talks with a five-member government panel. The protesters, including JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahto who is on a fast, demand the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand PSC Civil Services Examination and an independent probe into irregularities.

'Their demands are legitimate': Rahul Gandhi asks Jharkhand CM to meet protesting students

'Their demands are legitimate': Rahul Gandhi asks Jharkhand CM to meet protesting students

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has written to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, urging him to personally meet with student representatives protesting irregularities in state recruitment examinations. Gandhi stressed the legitimacy and peaceful nature of the students' demands, highlighting the Congress party's support for their right to protest.

Boleng Gears Up For Asian Rafting Championships 2026

Boleng Gears Up For Asian Rafting Championships 2026

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Boleng in Arunachal Pradesh's Siang district will host the Asian Rafting Championships 2026 in October, boosting the state's adventure sports and tourism profile. Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Minister Ojing Tasing are reviewing preparations for the event, which will showcase the state's rivers and landscapes to an international audience.

'Attack on one is attack on all': Pak, Saudi, Turkiye sign joint defence pact

'Attack on one is attack on all': Pak, Saudi, Turkiye sign joint defence pact

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on Friday signed a key joint defence agreement under which an attack against one of them will be treated as an attack against all of them, amid increasing security concerns in the wake of escalating tensions in West Asia.

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A Mumbai-based social media influencer has filed a complaint with Indore police, seeking an investigation into the alleged presence of minor boys and girls at a recent student protest in New Delhi. The complaint targets Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and chief spokesperson Saurav Das, among others, for facilitating minors' participation in the NEET paper leak agitation. Police are investigating the matter, which could lead to charges under POCSO, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and Juvenile Justice Act if cognisable offences are found.

'Writing about my life was not easy': Sonia Gandhi on her book

'Writing about my life was not easy': Sonia Gandhi on her book

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's 544-page memoir, 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', is set to be published in November, offering an intimate account of her life, from her childhood in Italy to her experiences in India and her eventual entry into politics following personal tragedies.

Rajasthan govt restricts entry, photography in schools amid CJP campaign

Rajasthan govt restricts entry, photography in schools amid CJP campaign

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Rajasthan government has issued an order restricting the entry of outsiders into government schools and barring photography and videography without prior permission, a move that follows protests over poor conditions and an announced inspection by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

Left AAP because...: Harbhajan Singh opens up on joining BJP

Left AAP because...: Harbhajan Singh opens up on joining BJP

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Cricketer-turned-politician Harbhajan Singh revealed in a podcast interview that his decision to switch from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stemmed from the AAP government's alleged neglect of his concerns regarding drug abuse and sports promotion in Punjab.

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

US Vice-President J D Vance's unexpected phone call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 8 has ignited speculation about a potential diplomatic overture, possibly seeking India's support amidst the escalating US-Iran conflict and a shifting global power landscape, suggests Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Assam-Arunachal border row turns violent, 12 injured

Assam-Arunachal border row turns violent, 12 injured

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

At least 12 people from Assam were injured in alleged firing by miscreants from Arunachal Pradesh along the interstate border in Dhemaji district on Monday over encroachment of land, the police said.

Ex-TMC MLA arrested over 'hurried cremation' of RG Kar victim

Ex-TMC MLA arrested over 'hurried cremation' of RG Kar victim

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh has been arrested in Odisha in connection with the alleged hurried cremation of a doctor who was raped and murdered in Kolkata in 2024. The arrest follows a fresh complaint by the victim's father, accusing Ghosh of involvement in the destruction of evidence and criminal conspiracy.

Sheikh Abdullah's Ouster Began J&K's Long Road To 2019

Sheikh Abdullah's Ouster Began J&K's Long Road To 2019

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah's dismissal and arrest on August 9, 1953 marked a decisive shift in the Centre-J&K power equation. Seven decades later, the erosion of the state's special constitutional position culminated in the August 5, 2019 changes, notes Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

Rishabh Pant seeks Uttarakhand land for home, CM Dhami assures help

Rishabh Pant seeks Uttarakhand land for home, CM Dhami assures help

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has appealed to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for assistance in acquiring land to build a home and shift his base from Delhi to his native state. CM Dhami has assured Pant of all possible help, stating that the matter has been referred to concerned officials.

Jharkhand protests: 3 FIRs filed against 39 named, 900 unnamed people

Jharkhand protests: 3 FIRs filed against 39 named, 900 unnamed people

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Three FIRs have been lodged against 39 named and more than 900 unnamed people in connection with clashes that broke out between the police and protesting job aspirants in Jharkhand's Giridih and Hazaribag, officials said on Sunday.

'Only 1 bill saw debate': Govt blames Cong for Parl washout

'Only 1 bill saw debate': Govt blames Cong for Parl washout

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Kiren Rijiju has strongly criticised the Congress for allegedly 'unfairly disrupting' the recent monsoon session.

CM Sai Rewards Gyaneshwari Yadav With Cash And DSP Promotion

CM Sai Rewards Gyaneshwari Yadav With Cash And DSP Promotion

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has announced a Rs 30 lakh cash reward and an out-of-turn promotion to Deputy Superintendent of Police for weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav. This recognition follows her silver medal win in the women's 53 kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026. The Chief Minister lauded her perseverance and dedication, highlighting her achievement as an inspiration for youth and a testament to the state's sporting talent.

India rejects Israel defence pact reports after Pak-Saudi-Turkiye deal

India rejects Israel defence pact reports after Pak-Saudi-Turkiye deal

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The ministry of external affairs on Friday dismissed as 'fake news' reports alleging that India had requested Israel to sign a defence pact in response to the newly formed Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Turkey security framework.

In 12 years, India developed on scale never seen before: Modi on I-Day

In 12 years, India developed on scale never seen before: Modi on I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation from the Red Fort on Independence Day, declared that India is undergoing a rapid transformation across various sectors and is firmly on track to become a developed nation by 2047.

Attempts were made to mislead Gen Z: Pradhan on why he resigned

Attempts were made to mislead Gen Z: Pradhan on why he resigned

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that attempts were made to "mislead" Gen Z during the NEET paper leak protests, prompting his resignation, and also addressed criticism from former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik.

Rishabh Pant's mother begins rebuilding ancestral home in Uttarakhand

Rishabh Pant's mother begins rebuilding ancestral home in Uttarakhand

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The reconstruction of cricketer Rishabh Pant's ancestral home in Pali-Amdali village, Pithoragarh, has begun, bringing happiness to locals who hope for his increased visits. His mother, Saroj Pant, initiated the rebuilding after a recent visit, aiming to strengthen Rishabh's connection to his roots in Uttarakhand.

Goa Minister Accused Of Illegal Soil Transport, Obstructing Officials

Goa Minister Accused Of Illegal Soil Transport, Obstructing Officials

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

A Goa forest department official has filed a police complaint against state minister Subhash Phal Desai, alleging he obstructed officials and facilitated the illegal transportation of soil from a protected forest area. The complaint details the excavation and uprooting of trees, while the minister claims the soil was for a sports ground.

Baloch militants are 'foreign-sponsored proxies', says Pak army chief

Baloch militants are 'foreign-sponsored proxies', says Pak army chief

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has described militants operating in Balochistan as 'foreign-sponsored proxies' actively working to destabilise the province and obstruct its development.

Union Minister Bittu Apologises For Casteist Remarks

Union Minister Bittu Apologises For Casteist Remarks

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu has apologised to the Scheduled Caste community for his recent objectionable remarks, stating that as a minister, he should not have used such language.

Now Unnao school students take to the streets in protest

Now Unnao school students take to the streets in protest

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Hundreds of students at a government residential school in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, staged a protest against alleged poor-quality food, inadequate drinking water, teacher shortages, and the principal's behaviour. The demonstration, part of a recent trend of "Gen alpha protests" in the state, briefly disrupted traffic before officials intervened and assured the students that their grievances would be addressed, leading to a peaceful resolution.

Over 50% of 18th LS bills passed in same session they were introduced: Data

Over 50% of 18th LS bills passed in same session they were introduced: Data

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

More than half of the bills introduced in the 18th Lok Sabha have been passed by both Houses in the same session, a significant acceleration compared to previous terms, raising concerns about the time available for legislative scrutiny and stakeholder consultations.

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government has cancelled 44 recruitment examinations conducted by the state Public Service Commission (JPSC) and an outsourced agency since 2014, including the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, following a 25-day student agitation over alleged irregularities. This decision has led to protests from around 2,000 candidates who had already been appointed to various state government departments after clearing the JSSC-CGL exam.

Rebel TMC MPs meet Bengal CM over mosque loudspeakers, SIR

Rebel TMC MPs meet Bengal CM over mosque loudspeakers, SIR

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Two NCPI MPs from Murshidabad, West Bengal, met with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to express concerns over the removal of mosque loudspeakers, alleging police overreach and targeting of Muslims. They also sought his intervention to expedite hearings for approximately 27 lakh people excluded from electoral rolls, highlighting difficulties faced by genuine voters due to delays in tribunal decisions.

Jinnah's Secret Illness Could Have Averted Partition

Jinnah's Secret Illness Could Have Averted Partition

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Had it been know that Jinnah suffered from tuberculosis and did not have much time to live, there is a possibility Partition could have been averted.

Shah says 'debate', Oppn hits back with 'resign' as protests rock LS

Shah says 'debate', Oppn hits back with 'resign' as protests rock LS

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Home Minister Amit Shah has offered to hold a comprehensive debate in Parliament on student protests and other pressing issues, but Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has swiftly rejected the proposal, demanding accountability for actions against students.

'Won't let...: Sukhbir Badal's 1st reaction after kirpan attack

'Won't let...: Sukhbir Badal's 1st reaction after kirpan attack

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Former Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, injured in a 'kirpan' attack at a Nanded gurdwara, has vowed to prevent 'forces' from disturbing peace in Punjab and the country, asserting his party, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), will not be deterred.

TN to opposes Centre's delimitation plan, backs 543-seat Lok Sabha freeze

TN to opposes Centre's delimitation plan, backs 543-seat Lok Sabha freeze

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

A meeting of Tamil Nadu MPs, led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, unanimously decided to oppose the Union government's proposed delimitation exercise, demanding its complete withdrawal and an extension of the delimitation freeze for another 25 years.

Bengal ex-dy speaker's death: TMC factions trade charges, BJP seeks probe

Bengal ex-dy speaker's death: TMC factions trade charges, BJP seeks probe

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The death of former West Bengal assembly deputy speaker and veteran Trinamool Congress leader Ashis Banerjee on Sunday triggered a political blame game, with the rival factions within the party and the Bharatiya Janata Party trading allegations over the circumstances surrounding the 74-year-old leader's death.

Kerala Minister Admits Impropriety In Pension Distribution

Kerala Minister Admits Impropriety In Pension Distribution

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Kerala Minister K M Shaji admitted that distributing welfare pensions from a UDF political office in Malappuram's Pulpatta panchayat was improper, leading to the removal of the responsible official. The incident, which sparked allegations of rule violation, was attributed to unforeseen circumstances and bad weather, with the minister assuring steps to prevent recurrence.

Haryana CM Discusses AI, Digital Governance With World Bank

Haryana CM Discusses AI, Digital Governance With World Bank

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini met with a World Bank delegation to discuss advancing Artificial Intelligence, digital governance, and skill development in the state. The discussions focused on leveraging technology to enhance citizen services, with plans to showcase Haryana's AI Sandbox globally and develop a dedicated AI model for the state.

Digital Banking Records Now Admissible As Evidence

Digital Banking Records Now Admissible As Evidence

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Rajya Sabha has passed The Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026, which aims to replace a British-era law and allow digital and virtual records to be admissible as evidence in courts. This legislation aligns with contemporary digital banking practices and extends a uniform evidential framework to various financial entities, including NBFCs and fintech companies. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the bill's role in strengthening public confidence and safeguarding customer privacy. The bill's passage, however, saw an Opposition walkout over unrelated issues.

9 killed in hotel blaze in Bengal's Tarapith; owner among 2 detained

9 killed in hotel blaze in Bengal's Tarapith; owner among 2 detained

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Hotel officials claimed the fire was caused by a short circuit. A woman from Kolkata, who managed to escape the blaze, recalled the panic inside the hotel.

Modi seeks unity on women's quota in Independence Day address

Modi seeks unity on women's quota in Independence Day address

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to opposition parties to support the delimitation-linked Women's Reservation Bill, highlighting its 40-year struggle. The bill aims to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures and increase Lok Sabha seats, requiring a two-thirds majority for passage. Despite previous setbacks and ongoing efforts to secure numbers, the government continues to push for this crucial legislation.