News for 'Ministers of State'

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.

Kerala MLA Kappan Unhappy With Proposed Cabinet Sharing

Kerala MLA Kappan Unhappy With Proposed Cabinet Sharing

Rediff.com17 May 2026

UDF Independent MLA Mani C Kappan has voiced his dissatisfaction with the proposed Cabinet allocation in Kerala, suggesting that all members of 'Team UDF' should be accommodated. He revealed that he was offered a ministerial berth for 2.5 years, after which another leader would take his place, a proposal he did not agree to.

'Clock is ticking': Trump warns Iran to move FAST or...

'Clock is ticking': Trump warns Iran to move FAST or...

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to Iran as negotiations remained deadlocked over uranium stockpiles, sanctions relief and war compensation. The US President's sharp remarks came just hours after Iranian media revealed Washington's core conditions for resuming negotiations.

NEET Aspirant's Death: Political Leaders Demand Accountability

NEET Aspirant's Death: Political Leaders Demand Accountability

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The suicide of a NEET aspirant in Uttar Pradesh, allegedly due to the cancellation of the medical entrance exam, has triggered strong reactions from opposition leaders who are demanding accountability and compensation for the family.

Sujit Bose Arrested In West Bengal Recruitment Scam

Sujit Bose Arrested In West Bengal Recruitment Scam

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Former West Bengal minister Sujit Bose has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case linked to an alleged municipality recruitment scam.

Thousands join Prateek Yadav's funeral procession in Lucknow

Thousands join Prateek Yadav's funeral procession in Lucknow

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The funeral of Prateek Yadav, son of Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, took place in Lucknow with thousands of supporters in attendance. Family members and political figures paid their respects.

Kerala Congress To Reinvestigate Alleged Assault By CM's Gunmen

Kerala Congress To Reinvestigate Alleged Assault By CM's Gunmen

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Congress MLA-elect A D Thomas has said strong action would be taken over the alleged assault on party workers, including himself, by gunmen of then CM Pinarayi Vijayan during the 2023 Nava Kerala Sadas, after the UDF government assumes charge.

Kerala Minister's Wife Withdraws Complaint Following Apology

Kerala Minister's Wife Withdraws Complaint Following Apology

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The wife of Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar has dropped her complaint against him after he admitted his mistake and apologised. She stated she did not intend to tarnish his or the government's image and that the matter would be resolved.

Bengal CEO Manoj Agarwal appointed chief secretary of Suvendu govt

Bengal CEO Manoj Agarwal appointed chief secretary of Suvendu govt

Rediff.com12 May 2026

West Bengal's appointment of Manoj Agarwal, the former Chief Electoral Officer, as the new Chief Secretary has ignited a political firestorm, raising concerns about the fairness and impartiality of the state's electoral processes.

CBI Raids Punjab Vigilance Office, Arrests Middlemen In Bribery Case

CBI Raids Punjab Vigilance Office, Arrests Middlemen In Bribery Case

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The CBI conducted a late-night raid at the Punjab Vigilance office in Mohali, arresting several middlemen allegedly involved in collecting bribes for a senior officer. The raid was part of an investigation into a bribery allegation of around 20 lakh. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia criticised the AAP government over the incident.

Policeman Killed During Polio Vaccination Drive In Pakistan

Policeman Killed During Polio Vaccination Drive In Pakistan

Rediff.com18 May 2026

A police constable was killed by gunmen in northwest Pakistan while returning from escort duty for a polio vaccination drive. The incident occurred in Bajaur district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, on the first day of a four-day anti-polio campaign.

Kerala Government: Full Cabinet Expected To Be Sworn In On Monday

Kerala Government: Full Cabinet Expected To Be Sworn In On Monday

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The entire Cabinet of the new Kerala government is expected to be sworn in on Monday, with the list of ministers likely to be finalised soon, according to UDF convenor Adoor Prakash. Leaders of UDF allies held a meeting to discuss the preparations for the swearing-in ceremony.

Majithia Accuses AAP Of Turning Punjab Into Gangster Haven

Majithia Accuses AAP Of Turning Punjab Into Gangster Haven

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia has criticised the AAP government in Punjab, alleging a rise in organised crime and a deteriorating law and order situation.

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's confidant to archnemesis

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's confidant to archnemesis

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari's rise within the BJP in West Bengal has been marked by strategic victories and relentless opposition to the TMC, culminating in his leadership role within the party's legislative wing.

Yogi Adityanath: UP Attracted Rs 50 Trillion Investment Proposals Since 2017

Yogi Adityanath: UP Attracted Rs 50 Trillion Investment Proposals Since 2017

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that the state has secured investment proposals worth approximately Rs 50 trillion over the past nine years, attributing this economic revival to the enforcement of the rule of law and strategic policy changes. He affirmed UP's trajectory towards becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2029-30.

Election over, petrol, diesel prices hiked by Rs 3/litre

Election over, petrol, diesel prices hiked by Rs 3/litre

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Petrol and diesel prices in India have been increased by Rs 3 per litre each, marking the first rate hike in over four years. This decision follows a period of stable prices during recent state elections, despite rising global crude oil prices and significant losses for fuel retailers.

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Rediff.com10 May 2026

BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma has been appointed as the Chief Minister of Assam, marking the NDA's third consecutive government in the state. Sarma's swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for May 12, with key political figures expected to attend.

Vijay meets Stalin ahead of crucial floor test in TN

Vijay meets Stalin ahead of crucial floor test in TN

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay met with his predecessor, DMK President MK Stalin, at his residence in Alwarpet, Chennai, ahead of a crucial floor test for the government. The meeting, described as a courtesy call, occurred after Vijay's criticism of the previous DMK regime's debt burden.

NEET paper leak: CBI arrests 5; TN CM Vijay calls for abolishing test

NEET paper leak: CBI arrests 5; TN CM Vijay calls for abolishing test

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The CBI has arrested five individuals and conducted searches across India in connection with the NEET UG paper leak case. Protests have intensified, and calls for the Education Minister's resignation have grown louder. Political parties are trading blame, and the Supreme Court is considering a plea for an overhaul of the National Testing Agency.

Avoid destination weddings, prefer online classes: Modi continues austerity push

Avoid destination weddings, prefer online classes: Modi continues austerity push

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to citizens to adopt austerity measures, including avoiding destination weddings abroad and reducing edible oil consumption, to mitigate the impact of the West Asia crisis on India's economy.

Five Terrorists Killed In Pakistan Security Operation

Five Terrorists Killed In Pakistan Security Operation

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Security forces in Pakistan have killed five terrorists in intelligence-based operations in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, following an attack on a police checkpost that resulted in the deaths of 15 security officials.

Family Protests Woman's Death, Demands Fresh Autopsy At AIIMS Delhi

Family Protests Woman's Death, Demands Fresh Autopsy At AIIMS Delhi

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The family of a 33-year-old woman, Twisha Sharma, who was found dead in Bhopal, staged a protest demanding a fresh post-mortem examination at AIIMS Delhi, alleging dowry harassment and murder against her husband and mother-in-law.

Praveen Chakravarthy: Meet The Man Behind The Congress-TVK Alliance

Praveen Chakravarthy: Meet The Man Behind The Congress-TVK Alliance

Rediff.com21 May 2026

'On the day of the results itself, Vijay personally requested Rahul Gandhi for support from the Congress.'

Four-year-old Punjab boy rescued from borewell after nine-hour operation

Four-year-old Punjab boy rescued from borewell after nine-hour operation

Rediff.com16 May 2026

A four-year-old boy was safely rescued from a borewell in Punjab's Hoshiarpur district after a nine-hour operation involving multiple rescue agencies and local volunteers.

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay, president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The ceremony included a selfie with Rahul Gandhi and a 360-degree video of the cheering crowd. Vijay's party achieved a historic debut, ending the duopoly of DMK and AIADMK.

Mulayam Singh Yadav's Son Prateek Dies At 38

Mulayam Singh Yadav's Son Prateek Dies At 38

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Prateek Yadav, the younger son of Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, has died at the age of 38 due to cardiac-lung complications. The news has prompted condolences from across the political spectrum in Uttar Pradesh.

Cong stretches Kerala CM saga, uncertainty irks ally

Cong stretches Kerala CM saga, uncertainty irks ally

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Congress party's delay in naming the next Chief Minister of Kerala has drawn criticism, particularly from key ally IUML, which warns of potential political fallout from the prolonged uncertainty.

How UP Boosted Sugarcane Farmers' Income

How UP Boosted Sugarcane Farmers' Income

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government announced it has paid a record Rs 3,21,963 crore to sugarcane growers since 2017, emphasising on-time payments and direct transfers to farmers' accounts. The government highlighted initiatives like farm loan waivers and the 'Smart Ganna Kisan' system for online sugarcane management.

BJP's first govt in Bengal to take oath on May 9; Modi, Shah, Nabin to attend

BJP's first govt in Bengal to take oath on May 9; Modi, Shah, Nabin to attend

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The BJP is set to form its first government in West Bengal, with the oath-taking ceremony scheduled for May 9 at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata. The event is expected to be attended by prominent BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Randhawa Family Demands Arrest of Ex-Minister Bhullar in Suicide Case

Randhawa Family Demands Arrest of Ex-Minister Bhullar in Suicide Case

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The family of a warehousing corporation official who allegedly committed suicide after accusing former minister Laljit Singh Bhullar of harassment has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Punjab government to arrest him.

Report reveals US-Israel regime change plan in Iran

Report reveals US-Israel regime change plan in Iran

Rediff.com20 May 2026

A media report suggests the US and Israel considered installing Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as Iran's president as part of regime change plans.

AAP Government Faces Criticism Over Punjab Security Lapses

AAP Government Faces Criticism Over Punjab Security Lapses

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Opposition parties have criticised the AAP government in Punjab following twin blasts in Jalandhar and Amritsar, citing a breakdown in law and order and intelligence systems. The blasts have sparked a political blame game, with accusations flying between the AAP and BJP.

Pune IED Recovery: CCTV Footage Being Enhanced To Nab Accused

Pune IED Recovery: CCTV Footage Being Enhanced To Nab Accused

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that CCTV footage and images of the number plate of the vehicle involved in the IED recovery incident in Pune are being enhanced to identify the accused.

Kerala CM row: Satheesan meets sulking Chennithala; UDF begins govt talks

Kerala CM row: Satheesan meets sulking Chennithala; UDF begins govt talks

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Kerala's Chief Minister-designate V D Satheesan visited senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, emphasising their close relationship and seeking blessings for his new role.

Punjab Opposition Demands Clarity On Blast Investigation

Punjab Opposition Demands Clarity On Blast Investigation

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Punjab's Leader of Opposition, Partap Singh Bajwa, has criticised the government's conflicting statements regarding recent blasts, calling for transparency and accountability instead of political theatrics.

FIRs against Maharashtra ex-DGP a result of personal grudges: HC

FIRs against Maharashtra ex-DGP a result of personal grudges: HC

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Bombay High Court has quashed multiple FIRs against former Maharashtra DGP Sanjay Pandey, senior advocate Shekhar Jagtap, and others, citing 'personal grudges' and an abuse of the legal process.

Jharkhand CM Orders Priority For Missing Children, Women Cases

Jharkhand CM Orders Priority For Missing Children, Women Cases

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has directed officials to prioritise cases involving missing children and women, while also cracking down on narcotic substances and land-related crimes.

Poll defeat conceded? Mamata updates bio on X, Facebook

Poll defeat conceded? Mamata updates bio on X, Facebook

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Mamata Banerjee, former West Bengal chief minister, updated her social media profiles to reflect her position as Founder Chairperson of the All India Trinamool Congress and Chief Minister of West Bengal, despite the party's recent electoral defeat.