News for 'Ministers of State'

Messi Event Chaos: Organiser Blames Political Interference

Messi Event Chaos: Organiser Blames Political Interference

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Sports event organiser Satadru Dutta alleges that political interference, security failures, and administrative lapses led to the chaotic Lionel Messi event at Salt Lake stadium in Kolkata last December, claiming he was made a scapegoat.

CBI Nabs Accused In Adhikari Associate Murder Case

CBI Nabs Accused In Adhikari Associate Murder Case

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The CBI has arrested Naveen Kumar Singh in connection with the murder of Chandranath Rath, an associate of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The arrest was made in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, following a coordinated effort with the UP STF and local police. The investigation continues to explore various angles, including arms supply networks and inter-district links.

Maha: Firefighter, guard killed in Thane vegetable market blaze

Maha: Firefighter, guard killed in Thane vegetable market blaze

Rediff.com21 May 2026

A firefighter and a security guard died, and two firefighters were injured, in a major fire at a vegetable market near Thane railway station. The blaze destroyed 155 stalls, prompting investigations and financial aid for victims' families.

Trump pushes mega Middle East reset through Iran deal

Trump pushes mega Middle East reset through Iran deal

Rediff.com26 May 2026

In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump said negotiations with Iran were 'proceeding nicely' and argued that several Muslim and Arab nations should formally recognise Israel and join the Abraham Accords once a deal is reached.

CPI(M) Leader Mocks Congress Over Kerala Leadership Race

CPI(M) Leader Mocks Congress Over Kerala Leadership Race

Rediff.com11 May 2026

CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby criticised the Congress-led UDF over internal divisions and the leadership race in Kerala, mocking the frequent consultations between Kerala and Delhi.

West Bengal Government To Prioritise Women's Safety And Freedom

West Bengal Government To Prioritise Women's Safety And Freedom

Rediff.com14 May 2026

West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul has said the state government would ensure women can move freely at any time of the day, and that complaints lodged by them are treated by the police on a priority basis.

AAP Accuses Centre Of Misusing Agencies In Punjab

AAP Accuses Centre Of Misusing Agencies In Punjab

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) held protests across Punjab against the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) action against state minister Sanjeev Arora, accusing the central government of misusing agencies against its leaders. The BJP criticised the AAP workers' behaviour during the protests.

Who Will Win Kerala's Game Of Thrones?

Who Will Win Kerala's Game Of Thrones?

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Already, within the week of the election results it became apparent that the Congress' DNA has not changed from its traditional approach to politics as but a game of thrones, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Congress Accuses Rajasthan BJP Of NEET Paper Leak Cover-Up

Congress Accuses Rajasthan BJP Of NEET Paper Leak Cover-Up

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Congress leaders in Rajasthan have accused the BJP government of attempting to suppress the NEET-UG paper leak, alleging the involvement of a local BJP leader. The BJP denies the claims, while the Congress demands answers and an impartial investigation.

Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP's Divisive Politics In Punjab

Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP's Divisive Politics In Punjab

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the BJP of engaging in divisive politics and attempting to incite violence in Punjab for electoral gains, while reaffirming his government's commitment to peace and communal harmony.

Chandigarh Embraces 'No Car Day' To Cut Fuel Consumption

Chandigarh Embraces 'No Car Day' To Cut Fuel Consumption

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Chandigarh observed its first 'no car day' with officials using electric buses and bicycles, following the governor's appeal to cut fuel consumption and promote eco-friendly transportation.

Saffron shawls not allowed in schools under new order, clarifies Siddaramaiah

Saffron shawls not allowed in schools under new order, clarifies Siddaramaiah

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has clarified that saffron shawls are not permitted in educational institutions, while existing practices such as hijab, turbans, rudraksha beads, and sacred threads will continue to be allowed.

Bandi Sanjay Kumar Expresses Faith In Justice System After Son's Arrest

Bandi Sanjay Kumar Expresses Faith In Justice System After Son's Arrest

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar has expressed his faith in the legal process after his son, Bageerath, was arrested in a POCSO case. Kumar has requested understanding and support during this difficult time for his family, while reaffirming their commitment to fighting the case legally.

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The newly elected BJP-led NDA government in Assam will be sworn in on May 12, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries expected to attend. Preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and secure ceremony.

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.

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

Rediff.com14 May 2026

V D Satheesan, a 61-year-old lawyer-turned-politician, has emerged as a prominent figure in Kerala politics, known for his aggressive opposition to the Left government and his role in revitalising the Congress party. His journey from student politics to a key leadership position highlights his strategic acumen and dedication to addressing local issues.

10-yr-old raped, brutally killed in TN; CM Vijay vows action

10-yr-old raped, brutally killed in TN; CM Vijay vows action

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Political leaders in Tamil Nadu, including TTV Dhinakaran and Anbumani Ramadoss, have strongly condemned the abduction and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore district. Two people have been reportedly arrested in connection with the incident.

Astrologer who predicted Vijay's win appointed OSD to CM

Astrologer who predicted Vijay's win appointed OSD to CM

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has appointed Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, an astrologer and spokesperson for the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), as his Personal Secretary. The appointment has sparked controversy, with questions raised about the need for an astrologer in such a role.

West Bengal CM Adhikari Reviews Law And Order

West Bengal CM Adhikari Reviews Law And Order

Rediff.com9 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari held a meeting with top officials to review the law and order situation in the state and ensure the smooth functioning of existing government schemes.

Fifth Arrest In Odisha Lynching Case After Sexual Assault Allegations

Fifth Arrest In Odisha Lynching Case After Sexual Assault Allegations

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Police in Odisha have arrested a fifth person in connection with the lynching of a man accused of sexually assaulting two women in the Khurda district. The Director General of Police and the State Commission for Women chairperson conducted an on-spot inquiry, and the Chief Minister has directed strict action against the culprits.

Court Rejects CBI Custody Plea In West Bengal Murder Case

Court Rejects CBI Custody Plea In West Bengal Murder Case

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A local court in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, has rejected a plea by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) seeking custody of firearms recovered from a man arrested in connection with the murder of Chandranath Rath, an associate of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

Bengal govt makes Vande Mataram mandatory in schools

Bengal govt makes Vande Mataram mandatory in schools

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The West Bengal government has directed all state-run and aided schools to mandatorily include the singing of Vande Mataram during morning assemblies with immediate effect.

NEET-UG re-exam on June 21; computer-based test from next year: Pradhan

NEET-UG re-exam on June 21; computer-based test from next year: Pradhan

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that the NEET-UG medical entrance exam, which was cancelled due to alleged irregularities, will be re-conducted on June 21.

Nishant Kumar Set To Join Bihar Government on Thursday

Nishant Kumar Set To Join Bihar Government on Thursday

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Nishant Kumar, son of former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, is poised to enter Bihar politics by joining the Samrat Choudhary government, marking a significant development in the state's political landscape.

Why F1 is unlikely return to India in 2027 despite Sports Minister's big push

Why F1 is unlikely return to India in 2027 despite Sports Minister's big push

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is pushing for a Formula 1 race in India in 2027 by addressing tax hurdles that led to the event's departure in 2013.

NCP Leader Rupali Chakankar Grilled Over Godman Links

NCP Leader Rupali Chakankar Grilled Over Godman Links

Rediff.com10 May 2026

NCP leader Rupali Chakankar appeared before a special investigation team (SIT) for questioning regarding her alleged association with self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who is under arrest in rape and sexual exploitation cases. Chakankar, who resigned as the state women's panel chief, has pledged full cooperation with the probe.

Why Kolkata Municipal Corporation Is Investigating Banerjee's Properties

Why Kolkata Municipal Corporation Is Investigating Banerjee's Properties

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has issued notices to properties linked to TMC's Abhishek Banerjee, seeking building plans for scrutiny amid allegations of unauthorised construction.

Punjab ex-minister Bhullar arrested in official's suicide case

Punjab ex-minister Bhullar arrested in official's suicide case

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Former Punjab minister and AAP MLA Laljit Singh Bhullar has been arrested for allegedly abetting the suicide of a state warehousing corporation official. The arrest follows accusations of harassment and pressure related to a warehouse tender.

Dowry Death Case Takes Twist: Husband Alleges Drug Addiction

Dowry Death Case Takes Twist: Husband Alleges Drug Addiction

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The alleged dowry death case of a 33-year-old woman in Bhopal has taken a dramatic turn after her lawyer husband's bail application surfaced, claiming she was a drug addict undergoing psychiatric treatment. The family alleges dowry harassment led to her death, prompting a Special Investigation Team probe.

Bengal 'most polarised state': SC orders CBI/NIA probe, CAPF deployment

Bengal 'most polarised state': SC orders CBI/NIA probe, CAPF deployment

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over the 'hostage' situation involving seven judicial officials in West Bengal's Malda district, demanding explanations from state officials and authorising the Election Commission to seek a CBI or NIA probe.

Chhattisgarh: 4 of a family killed as house fire triggers cylinder blast

Chhattisgarh: 4 of a family killed as house fire triggers cylinder blast

Rediff.com13 May 2026

A family of four, including two minors, died in a house fire and subsequent cooking gas cylinder explosion in Kumhari town, Durg district, Chhattisgarh. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and the state government has announced financial assistance to the family.

Yogi minister breaks down at rally, threatens to quit over SC status demand

Yogi minister breaks down at rally, threatens to quit over SC status demand

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Uttar Pradesh minister Sanjay Nishad threatened to resign if the Nishad community is not granted Scheduled Caste status. He made the announcement during a rally in Gorakhpur, where he also criticised previous governments for neglecting the community.

Govt sends eviction notice to elite Delhi Gymkhana Club, cites security reasons

Govt sends eviction notice to elite Delhi Gymkhana Club, cites security reasons

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Delhi Gymkhana Club, a historic landmark in Lutyens' Delhi, is facing eviction as the government seeks to reclaim its land for defence infrastructure, raising concerns about the future of this elite institution.

Fuel price hike on cards? Puri says oil companies are losing Rs 1,000 cr a day

Fuel price hike on cards? Puri says oil companies are losing Rs 1,000 cr a day

Rediff.com12 May 2026

India possesses two months of fuel stockpiles and faces no supply concerns despite global energy disruptions, according to Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. However, state-run fuel retailers are incurring losses of up to Rs 1 lakh crore in a single quarter due to elevated crude prices and unchanged retail fuel prices, raising questions about the sustainability of these losses.

Congress MP Seeks CBI Probe Into Dowry Death Case In Bhopal

Congress MP Seeks CBI Probe Into Dowry Death Case In Bhopal

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress MP Vivek Tankha has requested a CBI investigation into the death of Twisha Sharma, who died at her marital home in Bhopal. The family alleges lapses in the local police investigation.

BJP sweeps Falta repoll by 1.5 lakh votes; TMC candidate loses deposit

BJP sweeps Falta repoll by 1.5 lakh votes; TMC candidate loses deposit

Rediff.com24 May 2026

The BJP has won the repoll to Bengal's Falta Assembly seat with a significant margin, marking a dramatic shift in the political landscape of West Bengal. The TMC's candidate slipped to fourth place and forfeited his deposit in what was once considered a TMC stronghold.

Man Arrested For Threatening Suicide Attack On Bengal CM

Man Arrested For Threatening Suicide Attack On Bengal CM

Rediff.com16 May 2026

A man has been arrested in Kolkata for allegedly sending an email threatening a suicide bomb attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

Himachal Pradesh Government To Take Strong Action Against Drug Smugglers

Himachal Pradesh Government To Take Strong Action Against Drug Smugglers

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Himachal Pradesh government is set to implement stringent measures, including mandatory drug testing for government jobs and 'bulldozer action' against drug smugglers, to combat the growing menace of 'chitta' (adulterated heroin) in the state.

SAD To Contest Local Elections On Party Symbol

SAD To Contest Local Elections On Party Symbol

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has announced it will contest the upcoming elections to 102 nagar councils and nine municipal corporations on the party symbol. The decision was made at a meeting presided over by party president Sukhbir Singh Badal. The party also addressed concerns about the anti-sacrilege law and the law and order situation in Punjab.

Maharashtra Official Suspended For Alleged Godman Connection

Maharashtra Official Suspended For Alleged Godman Connection

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Maharashtra government has suspended a deputy collector for his alleged links with self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, in the first such crackdown on officials after the case rocked the state earlier this year.