News for 'Minister of State'

Punjab Minister's ED Remand Extended In Money Laundering Probe

Punjab Minister's ED Remand Extended In Money Laundering Probe

Rediff.com16 May 2026

A court in Gurugram has extended the Enforcement Directorate (ED) remand of Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora by two days in connection with a Rs 100-crore money laundering case.

Maha rains: 13 dead in 4 days; rain to continue till July 8

Maha rains: 13 dead in 4 days; rain to continue till July 8

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has warned of a possible cloudburst-like spell in Nashik on Tuesday and stated that the state machinery is on high alert, with heavy rains expected to continue until July 8. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary travel as authorities manage landslides, swollen rivers, and rescue operations.

Union Minister's Son Booked Under POCSO Act

Union Minister's Son Booked Under POCSO Act

Rediff.com9 May 2026

A case under the POCSO Act has been registered against the son of Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar following allegations of sexual harassment. The minister's son has also filed a counter-complaint alleging extortion and criminal intimidation against the girl and her parents.

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi concluded without a joint statement due to disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with Iran blaming the UAE for the lack of consensus. India, as the host, issued a chair's statement highlighting the differing views.

CJP Spokesperson Under Fire For Eating Burger At Monday's Protest

CJP Spokesperson Under Fire For Eating Burger At Monday's Protest

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Cockroach Janata Party Spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya has sparked a controversy by defiantly defending his decision to eat a burger during Monday's protests against the NEET paper leak, rejecting public accountability for his personal actions.

Punjab Minister Sent To Judicial Custody In Money Laundering Case

Punjab Minister Sent To Judicial Custody In Money Laundering Case

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora has been sent to judicial custody for two weeks in connection with an alleged Rs 100-crore money laundering case. The Enforcement Directorate produced Arora before the court after completing his extended remand. The minister's next court appearance is scheduled for June 1st.

Odisha Textbooks Found With 1,678 Errors

Odisha Textbooks Found With 1,678 Errors

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

How did hundreds of errors slip through multiple stages of drafting, editing, proofreading, expert review and final approval before making their way into classrooms?

Journalist questioned, phone seized in Rs 35 crore TVK MLA bribery case

Journalist questioned, phone seized in Rs 35 crore TVK MLA bribery case

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A journalist from a Tamil news channel was questioned by Chennai police and his mobile phone seized in connection with an alleged bribery case involving a ruling TVK MLA. The MLA claimed he was offered Rs 35 crore to vote against his party in a no-confidence motion, part of a larger "Meghalaya Project" to destabilise the government. The Chennai Press Club has condemned the police action, citing concerns over press freedom.

HUMAIN AI Literacy Mission To Revolutionise School Education

HUMAIN AI Literacy Mission To Revolutionise School Education

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The HUMAIN AI Literacy Mission (HAILM) has been launched in India to integrate structured artificial intelligence education into schools nationwide. The initiative provides an age-appropriate AI curriculum for Classes 3-12, teacher training, and digital learning resources, aiming to equip students and educators with responsible AI understanding.

Wayanad landslide: NDRF, fire teams intensify river search for missing man

Wayanad landslide: NDRF, fire teams intensify river search for missing man

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Fire and Rescue teams on Saturday intensified search operations along the Meenachipuzha river to trace the lone missing person, Vikram Rana, as rescue efforts entered the fifth day following the Wayanad landslide.

Don't ask me to end fast: Wangchuk reveals what he wants

Don't ask me to end fast: Wangchuk reveals what he wants

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has decided to continue his indefinite hunger strike despite appeals, stating that ending it without government response would send the wrong message. He is urging supporters to join the Cockroach Janta Party's Parliament march on July 20 to press for accountability regarding alleged NEET irregularities.

Punjab Cong rift widens as Channi vs Warring showdown continues

Punjab Cong rift widens as Channi vs Warring showdown continues

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Despite claims from Congress general secretary Bhupesh Baghel that there are no objections to Amrinder Singh Raja Warring's continuation as Punjab unit president, a significant faction of leaders, including Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi, are actively pushing for his replacement, citing the need for an 'uncompromised' leader.

Islamic State Claims Responsibility For Pakistan Cleric's Murder

Islamic State Claims Responsibility For Pakistan Cleric's Murder

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A prominent cleric was shot dead by gunmen belonging to the Islamic State in a targeted attack in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, police said.

Mumbai woman stops police van carrying protesters, goes viral

Mumbai woman stops police van carrying protesters, goes viral

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A young woman, identified as Rhiya, became a symbol of Mumbai's solidarity protests over the NEET paper leak, captured in a viral image standing with outstretched arms to stop a police van amidst heavy rain, condemning alleged police brutality against agitators in Delhi.

Tension escalates in West Asia as IRGC announces Hormuz closure

Tension escalates in West Asia as IRGC announces Hormuz closure

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Saturday (local time) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz "until further notice," stating that the strategic waterway would remain shut until the United States ends its "interference" in the West Asia region, Press TV reported.

How Does Delhi Police Justify Violence Against Kids?

How Does Delhi Police Justify Violence Against Kids?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Social media accounts state that the Delhi police's use of force against the protestors marching to Parliament was excessive and unnecesssary. Videos posted on social media angered viewers appalled that the police would use such force against protesters who could well have been their children's age. Videos of distraught young protestors weeping at the violence overwhelmed viewers saddened by the insensitivity displayed by a force entrusted with protecting the Constitution.

India's Para Athletes Eye Record Medal Haul At Glasgow CWG

India's Para Athletes Eye Record Medal Haul At Glasgow CWG

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Paralympic Committee of India President Devendra Jhajharia predicts India will win a record-breaking half a dozen medals in para sports at the upcoming Glasgow Commonwealth Games, despite some exclusions. The 28-member contingent is confident of a strong performance across five disciplines.

Hyderabad teacher sacked for asking students to recite religious verses

Hyderabad teacher sacked for asking students to recite religious verses

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

A private school in Hyderabad has terminated a primary teacher after she assigned Islamic religious verses as homework, sparking controversy and prompting police intervention to ensure communal harmony. The incident led to protests and demands for action against the school from political and religious groups.

Olympic Medallist Vijender Singh Seeks Ministry Support For Haryana Boxing Academy

Olympic Medallist Vijender Singh Seeks Ministry Support For Haryana Boxing Academy

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Indian boxing icon Vijender Singh is planning to establish a boxing academy in his ancestral village of Kaluwas, Bhiwani, and has sought financial assistance from the Sports Ministry.

CM Yadav Hails India Women's Historic Test Win Over England

CM Yadav Hails India Women's Historic Test Win Over England

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav congratulated the Indian women's cricket team for their historic 270-run victory over England in the first-ever women's Test match at Lord's. He highlighted the significant contribution of Madhya Pradesh's Kranti Gaud, who took seven wickets in the match, expressing national pride in the team's stellar performance.

'Sonam Wangchuk will end hunger strike if...': Gitanjali Angmo

'Sonam Wangchuk will end hunger strike if...': Gitanjali Angmo

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, announced that Wangchuk would end his indefinite hunger strike if political leaders assure him that education accountability will be a focus of the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament. Wangchuk, currently admitted to Safdarjung Hospital, continues his fast, demanding action against the alleged NEET paper leak and broader education reforms.

Mamata apologises for traitors, says Abhishek's flaws forgiven

Mamata apologises for traitors, says Abhishek's flaws forgiven

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Mamata Banerjee strongly defended her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, apologising to the public for "traitors" who left the TMC. She accused the BJP of using investigative agencies to engineer defections and praised Abhishek for his resilience against political attacks, asserting that her family never compromised for political survival.

Why Ex-Bengal Minister Appeared Before ED After Skipping Summons

Why Ex-Bengal Minister Appeared Before ED After Skipping Summons

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Former West Bengal food minister Rathin Ghosh appeared before the ED in connection with the alleged civic recruitment scam case after skipping summons on five earlier occasions.

Can Cong Stop BJP's Constitutional Push?

Can Cong Stop BJP's Constitutional Push?

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

'Our leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, are in touch with all Opposition parties, including the DMK and the AAP.'

MHA issues fresh National Anthem, National Song guidelines

MHA issues fresh National Anthem, National Song guidelines

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued fresh directions to all state governments, Union Territory administrations, and central ministries, reiterating the rules governing the singing and playing of the National Anthem and the National Song, calling for their strict compliance.

Union minister's son arrested in POCSO case hours after lookout notice

Union minister's son arrested in POCSO case hours after lookout notice

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Bandi Sanjay Kumar's son, Bageerath, has been arrested in connection with a Pocso case. The arrest follows a complaint alleging sexual harassment of a minor. The case has sparked political reactions, with calls for the minister's removal to ensure a fair investigation.

Badrinath Temple Donations Under Scanner: Employee Booked

Badrinath Temple Donations Under Scanner: Employee Booked

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A suspended employee of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has been booked for alleged irregularities in handling donations at the Badrinath temple. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami condemned the act, calling it a "sin akin to cow slaughter," while a high-level government inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The Congress party has also demanded a judicial probe.

Two Arrested In Theft At Karnataka Minister's Residence

Two Arrested In Theft At Karnataka Minister's Residence

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Two men have been arrested for the alleged theft of gold ornaments worth Rs 1.13 crore at the house of Karnataka Housing Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan in Bengaluru last month, police said.

Punjab Minister Accuses BJP Of Trying To Disrupt Peace

Punjab Minister Accuses BJP Of Trying To Disrupt Peace

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has condemned the recent blasts in Amritsar and Jalandhar, calling them a deliberate attempt to spread terror and disrupt the state's peace. He accused the BJP of trying to create an atmosphere of fear and division for political gains ahead of elections.

BJP moves to quell Datia revolt ahead of bypoll

BJP moves to quell Datia revolt ahead of bypoll

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The Madhya Pradesh BJP has dispatched senior leaders to Datia to consolidate support for its bypoll candidate, Ashutosh Tiwari, following protests by supporters of former home minister Narottam Mishra, who was denied a ticket. The party is working to project unity ahead of the July 30 by-election, which was necessitated by the disqualification of the incumbent Congress MLA.

Maharashtra Congress Criticises State Government On Law And Order

Maharashtra Congress Criticises State Government On Law And Order

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal criticised the state government over the law and order situation, alleging a rise in crimes against women and questioning the administration's priorities.

Punjab Minister Accuses ED Of Politically Motivated Defamation

Punjab Minister Accuses ED Of Politically Motivated Defamation

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Punjab Minister Aman Arora has accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of defaming him by linking his name to recent raids in a money laundering probe. Arora alleges the BJP-led Centre is running a politically motivated campaign to malign him and has offered full cooperation with any inquiry.

'Pocketless clothing, frisking': Major temples adopt new SOPs amid Ram temple theft row

'Pocketless clothing, frisking': Major temples adopt new SOPs amid Ram temple theft row

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Following alleged thefts at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and other incidents, prominent temples across India, including Baba Balak Nath Temple in Himachal Pradesh and Ambaji temple in Gujarat, are implementing stringent new rules for counting offerings. These measures include mandatory pocketless clothing for staff, extensive CCTV surveillance, metal detector frisking, and promoting digital payments to ensure transparency, honesty, and accountability in donation management.

Indian Chess Federation Unveils Landmark Stipend Programme For Young Players

Indian Chess Federation Unveils Landmark Stipend Programme For Young Players

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has disbursed Rs 42.3 lakh in quarterly stipends to 42 promising young chess players across India. This first-of-its-kind initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens, support coaching and travel, and nurture future champions, aligning with a vision to strengthen grassroots chess development.

'Netanyahu knows who the boss is': Trump says Bibi asked for WH meeting

'Netanyahu knows who the boss is': Trump says Bibi asked for WH meeting

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are reportedly planning a White House meeting as early as next week, despite growing scepticism within Trump's inner circle regarding Netanyahu's actions and widening disagreements over regional security and Iran.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.

India And New Zealand Elevate Strategic Partnership

India And New Zealand Elevate Strategic Partnership

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his three-nation tour in New Zealand, where he and his counterpart Christopher Luxon elevated bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. The visit focused on doubling trade by 2030 and expanding cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, marking the first visit by an Indian PM in 40 years.

Mamata's long-time aide Madan Mitra joins rebel camp

Mamata's long-time aide Madan Mitra joins rebel camp

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Senior Trinamool Congress MLA Madan Mitra has joined the rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee, resigning from all organisational posts under Mamata Banerjee's leadership while maintaining his Trinamool MLA status. This move significantly bolsters the rebel camp and intensifies the power struggle within the party, coming amidst a municipal recruitment scam investigation involving Mitra's family.

3 killed, 5 missing in massive landslide at Wayanad tunnel site

3 killed, 5 missing in massive landslide at Wayanad tunnel site

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A devastating landslide at Kalladi near Meppady in Wayanad, Kerala, has resulted in one death and seven missing individuals at a crucial tunnel road project site, with Chief Minister V D Satheesan attributing the tragedy to contractors' failure to heed warnings about accumulated mud.

DMK politicised Karur stampede, says CM Vijay; announces victims' memorial

DMK politicised Karur stampede, says CM Vijay; announces victims' memorial

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has criticised the DMK for allegedly trying to gain 'political mileage' from the 2025 Karur stampede that killed 41 people, and also faulted the police for failing to alert him about the swelling crowd or cancelling the event.