News for 'National People's Congress'

Trump tariffs: 'This is not a tax cut, this is a tax hike'

Trump tariffs: 'This is not a tax cut, this is a tax hike'

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

"These latest so-called 'Liberation Day' tariffs are reckless and self-destructive, inflicting financial pain on Illinois at a time when people are already struggling to keep their small businesses afloat and put food on the table."

Hindi or Tamil: Why TN sees red over 3-language formula

Hindi or Tamil: Why TN sees red over 3-language formula

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

The three-language formula proposed in the National Education Policy 2020, is at the centre of the political row between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led Tamil Nadu government and the central government.

Cong fails to open account in Delhi for third time

Cong fails to open account in Delhi for third time

Rediff.com8 Feb 2025

The Congress party suffered a crushing defeat in the Delhi elections, failing to secure a single seat in the 70-member assembly for the third consecutive time. Key candidates, including Sheila Dikshit's son, Sandeep Dikshit, lost their deposits. The only consolation for the party was a slight improvement in its vote share, which they attribute to a vigorous campaign and a renewed focus on contesting elections independently. However, the defeat raises questions about the party's ability to compete in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, particularly in light of its performance in other recent state elections.

Former King Wants To Revive Nepal Monarchy, But..

Former King Wants To Revive Nepal Monarchy, But..

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

One fact is irrefutable: Nepal's recent political history tells us that the route to a return of monarchy cannot go through India despite friends in high places, asserts Aditi Phadnis.

Bring back J-K's part under China's occupation too, Omar tells BJP

Bring back J-K's part under China's occupation too, Omar tells BJP

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has criticized BJP leaders for accusing the National Conference (NC) of insulting Maharaja Hari Singh, the last ruler of the state. Abdullah challenged the BJP to provide evidence of such insults, while highlighting their own actions that he claims have undermined the Maharaja's legacy. He also called on the BJP-led government to retrieve the part of Jammu and Kashmir under Chinese occupation if they are serious about reclaiming the territory under Pakistan's control.

Kejriwal trying to pressure us through allies: Delhi Cong chief

Kejriwal trying to pressure us through allies: Delhi Cong chief

Rediff.com9 Jan 2025

With the Aam Aadmi Party facing 'anti-incumbency' in Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal is 'panicking' and is trying to pressure the Congress through its partners but 'we are not going to make any kind of alliance' with his party, city Congress chief Devender Yadav said on Thursday.

BJP picks first-time MLA Rekha Gupta as new Delhi CM

BJP picks first-time MLA Rekha Gupta as new Delhi CM

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

First-time MLA Rekha Gupta will be the new chief minister of Delhi, capping 11 days of suspense over who will get the top post after the Bharatiya Janata Party returned to power after over 26 years ending the 10-year rule of the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party.

'Time ripe for replacing collegium with NJAC or a better system'

'Time ripe for replacing collegium with NJAC or a better system'

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

Former Union Law Minister Ashwani Kumar has argued for replacing the existing collegium system for judicial appointments, asserting that public sentiment leans toward an alternative mechanism, potentially resembling the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC). He believes that the government has the authority to propose a revised constitutional amendment for judicial appointments that would withstand judicial scrutiny. Kumar also urged the Supreme Court to establish a robust internal process to address concerns within the judiciary, including allegations against judges.

'I Want To Forget The Horror Of This War'

'I Want To Forget The Horror Of This War'

Rediff.com22 Apr 2025

'While I would never wish for anyone to go through what we are, it has brought out the best in us by making each one of us a better version of ourselves.' 'Being courageous, fighting for freedom, taking the burden of responsibility to help each other...' 'I know hundreds and hundreds of examples where Ukrainians are risking their lives for complete strangers and it is only in moments like this that we truly understand what it means to be human.'

What does Delhi loss mean for aam aadmi CM Kejriwal?

What does Delhi loss mean for aam aadmi CM Kejriwal?

Rediff.com8 Feb 2025

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, suffered a major setback in the Delhi Assembly elections, losing to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The loss marks a significant blow to Kejriwal's national ambitions and raises questions about the future of the party. The AAP had been in power in Delhi for the past 10 years and had also formed a government in Punjab. Despite the defeat, the party still holds 13 MPs from Punjab and Delhi. The article examines the factors that contributed to the AAP's defeat, including allegations of corruption, poor civic facilities, and the BJP's relentless attacks. It also explores the impact of the loss on Kejriwal's national aspirations and the party's future.

Bypolls: BJP wins big in UP; Trinamool sweeps Bengal

Bypolls: BJP wins big in UP; Trinamool sweeps Bengal

Rediff.com24 Nov 2024

Ruling parties held sway in most of the 13 states in the assembly byelection results declared on Saturday, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies wresting seats in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Rajasthan and the Trinamool Congress sweeping West Bengal.

Hindi vs Tamil: Stalin govt changes Rupee symbol with Tamil letter

Hindi vs Tamil: Stalin govt changes Rupee symbol with Tamil letter

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

The DMK government in Tamil Nadu has sparked controversy by replacing the Indian Rupee symbol with a Tamil letter in the logo for its 2025-26 budget. The move has drawn criticism from the state BJP, which accused the ruling party of being "stupid." The development comes amidst the ongoing language row between the Centre and Tamil Nadu, with the latter alleging Hindi imposition by the Union government.

The Scotsman Who Loves India

The Scotsman Who Loves India

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

'You have to separate the concept of India as a nation State which is very young and the Upanishadic wisdom which is timeless.'

Union cabinet gives go ahead to 'one nation, one poll'

Union cabinet gives go ahead to 'one nation, one poll'

Rediff.com18 Sep 2024

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal for 'one nation, one Election' as recommended by the Kovind panel, Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Wednesday.

'Insulting 26/11 Martyrs Will Backfire On Congress'

'Insulting 26/11 Martyrs Will Backfire On Congress'

Rediff.com18 May 2024

'Why is the Congress not tendering an unconditional apology to the citizens of India?'

Your father owes his career to me: Nitish to Tejashwi

Your father owes his career to me: Nitish to Tejashwi

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar asserted that the NDA government, led by him, put an end to frequent Hindu-Muslim clashes in the state by taking measures such as fencing graveyards and bringing to justice those involved in communal riots. He also criticized the opposition, particularly Tejashwi Yadav, accusing them of lacking understanding and experience. Kumar's claims were met with anger and walkout by the opposition members.

EC calls all-party meeting amid electoral roll fudging charges

EC calls all-party meeting amid electoral roll fudging charges

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

The Election Commission of India has invited all national and state political parties to provide suggestions by April 30 on any unresolved issues related to the electoral process. This call for feedback comes amid allegations of electoral roll manipulation, with opposition parties demanding a discussion in Parliament on the issue. The EC has also proposed an interaction with party presidents and senior members to further strengthen electoral processes.

'Don't Compel Us To Study Hindi!'

'Don't Compel Us To Study Hindi!'

Rediff.com17 Mar 2025

'We are not opposed to any Indian language. We are against Hindi imposition.'

Denied ticket for LS polls, Rajasthan BJP MP joins Congress

Denied ticket for LS polls, Rajasthan BJP MP joins Congress

Rediff.com11 Mar 2024

After joining the Congress, Rahul Kaswan said he felt his "voice was not being heard" in the party.

Modi calls Maha Kumbh 'Maha Yagya of unity', hails UP govt

Modi calls Maha Kumbh 'Maha Yagya of unity', hails UP govt

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government has said that over 65 crore people visited the sacred site in Prayagraj since the Maha Kumbh began on January 13.

This MP Wants Ban On Online Betting Apps

This MP Wants Ban On Online Betting Apps

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

'The pressure from these betting games, coupled with financial ruin, is becoming unbearable for many, and tragically, some even resort to extreme measures like suicide.'

Kerala's half-price fraud may amount to Rs 600-700 cr

Kerala's half-price fraud may amount to Rs 600-700 cr

Rediff.com6 Feb 2025

Anandu Krishnan, a 26-year-old man, has been arrested for allegedly defrauding people of several crores by promising scooters, sewing machines, home appliances, and laptops at half price using fake CSR funds from major companies. The total fraud is estimated to be around Rs 600-700 crore. Krishnan was operating the scam since 2022 by registering societies and convincing people that he was the National Coordinator of the National NGO Federation and that he had been entrusted with managing the CSR funds of various companies. He collected money through 62 "seed societies" and used his political links to convince the victims. The police are investigating the role of certain political leaders in the fraud.

Kesari Chapter 2 Review: Ahistorical, But Entertaining

Kesari Chapter 2 Review: Ahistorical, But Entertaining

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

If you disregard history and are ready to watch Kesari 2 purely as an entertainer, you are definitely going to enjoy it, feels Utkarsh Mishra.

Seshan wanted to halt polls after Rajiv Gandhi's assassination: Book

Seshan wanted to halt polls after Rajiv Gandhi's assassination: Book

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

A new book by former West Bengal governor Gopal Krishna Gandhi claims that former chief election commissioner T N Seshan proposed an immediate halt to the general election process after Rajiv Gandhi's assassination in 1991 and even offered to become home minister. Gandhi, who was joint secretary to then president R Venkatraman, writes that Seshan was the one who broke the news of the assassination to the president and arrived at the Rashtrapati Bhawan "super-fast" that night. According to Gandhi's account, Seshan told Venkatraman that he felt the election process needed to be stopped and that he was ready to take on the role of home minister if necessary. However, Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar and Cabinet Secretary Naresh Chandra assured the president that the situation was under control and that there was no need to pause the election process. Seshan's suggestions were ultimately ignored, but he did manage to postpone the second and third phases of polling.

'India Must Not Support Nepal's Ex-King'

'India Must Not Support Nepal's Ex-King'

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

'Gyanendra back on the throne would be bad news for the Nepali people. He may not have learnt from his experience, but we have.'

Tharoor defends praising Modi over meet with Trump

Tharoor defends praising Modi over meet with Trump

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has defended his praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his meeting with US President Donald Trump, stating that he spoke with India's interests in mind. Tharoor said that Modi's US visit had yielded some positive outcomes for the Indian people and noted that Modi being the fourth world leader to meet Trump after he took office underscored India's growing importance on the global stage. However, he also pointed out that the visit left some questions unanswered, such as why the issue of how illegal immigrants were returned to India was not addressed. Tharoor also criticized the tendency of political parties to oppose each other reflexively, saying that there has to be some give and take in a democracy.

Waqf Bill vote: BJD leaders seeks action own MP

Waqf Bill vote: BJD leaders seeks action own MP

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Senior leaders of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in India are calling for action against Rajya Sabha MP and national spokesperson Sasmit Patra for allegedly creating confusion among lawmakers regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The controversy arose after Patra, despite the party's announced opposition to the Bill, revealed he had voted in favor of it and stated that MPs could vote according to their conscience. The situation has led to accusations of a possible "deal" between the BJD and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Show how EVMs can be hacked: Now TMC differs ally Cong

Show how EVMs can be hacked: Now TMC differs ally Cong

Rediff.com17 Dec 2024

He termed the allegations as "just random statements" and demanded that people making such allegations should demonstrate how the EVMs can be "hacked"

Prajwal case: 'People fleeing their homes in Hassan'

Prajwal case: 'People fleeing their homes in Hassan'

Rediff.com22 May 2024

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has asserted there were no lapses on the part of the government in handling cases relating to the alleged sexual abuse of women by Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna and that the Special Investigation Team was probing them from all angles.

Why Modi Chose To Speak In Parliament On Maha Kumbh

Why Modi Chose To Speak In Parliament On Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

Besides the not-so-hidden unease between Modi and Adityanath, Modi chose to address the Lok Sabha to ensure that he could personally claim all the kudos, observes Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

'Sheesh Mahal', 'liquor scam': Rahul lets it fly against Kejriwal

'Sheesh Mahal', 'liquor scam': Rahul lets it fly against Kejriwal

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal during his campaign rallies in Delhi, accusing him of being involved in the "liquor scam" and of being "afraid" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi also criticized Kejriwal's governance style, calling it "sheesh mahal politics" and accusing him of being absent when violence and hatred engulfed Delhi during the 2020 riots. He also attacked the BJP, accusing them of trying to change the Constitution and insulting the country's founding fathers.

Duplicate voter I-cards issue to be addressed in 3 months: EC

Duplicate voter I-cards issue to be addressed in 3 months: EC

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of a "scam" after the poll panel admitted to the existence of duplicate voter ID numbers. The ECI has said it will address the issue in the next three months. TMC leader Saket Gokhale alleged that the ECI is trying to "protect" someone and demanded answers about the extent of the duplication and why it took 25 years to address the problem.

Shah sounds poll bugle in Bihar, targets Lalu

Shah sounds poll bugle in Bihar, targets Lalu

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

Shah pulled no punches in lambasting the RJD supremo for alleged nepotism, accusing him of making his wife the chief minister, getting his daughter elected to Parliament and "now both his sons want to become the CM".

Is Haryana govt trying to poison me, asks Modi

Is Haryana govt trying to poison me, asks Modi

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in a rally in Delhi, comparing him to notorious criminal Charles Sobhraj and accusing him of spreading lies about the BJP government in Haryana mixing poison in the Yamuna river. Modi said Kejriwal's claims are an insult to India and that the AAP is desperate due to the fear of defeat in the upcoming Delhi elections. He also highlighted the BJP's track record of fulfilling promises and urged people to give him a chance to serve them. The attack comes as the Delhi election campaign heats up, with the AAP and BJP locked in a tight race.

Kejriwal And Family Cast Votes

Kejriwal And Family Cast Votes

Rediff.com5 Feb 2025

AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, along with his family, cast his vote in the Delhi Assembly elections

If Congress is nothing, then...: Kharge's dig at Modi

If Congress is nothing, then...: Kharge's dig at Modi

Rediff.com24 Apr 2024

Why is the saffron party welcoming corrupt people to their fold, the veteran leader asked.

No PM in past uttered such hateful...: When Manmohan Singh slammed Modi

No PM in past uttered such hateful...: When Manmohan Singh slammed Modi

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh accused his successor, Narendra Modi, of lowering the dignity of public discourse and the gravity of the office of the prime minister by giving "hateful speeches" during the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign. In an appeal to voters of Punjab ahead of the seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls, Singh asserted that only the Congress can ensure a growth-oriented progressive future where democracy and the Constitution will be safeguarded.

Uproar in Rajya Sabha over Kharge's 'unparliamentary' remark

Uproar in Rajya Sabha over Kharge's 'unparliamentary' remark

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

The Rajya Sabha witnessed an uproar on Tuesday over an unparliamentary remark by Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, who apologized to the Chair while clarifying that it was meant for the government that was "trying to create a regional divide" in the country. The controversy stemmed from a statement by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who slammed the Tamil Nadu government for its stand on the three-language policy under the National Education Policy (NEP). Kharge's use of a Hindi expression, deemed unparliamentary, sparked outrage from the treasury benches. He subsequently apologized for the remark, stating it was directed at the government's policies and not the Chair.

Bypoll boost for NDA in Bihar, Assam, Meghalaya; jolt in Bengal

Bypoll boost for NDA in Bihar, Assam, Meghalaya; jolt in Bengal

Rediff.com23 Nov 2024

The juggernaut of the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance, which triumphed in three of the four east and north-eastern states that went for assembly bypolls on Saturday, was halted yet again in West Bengal where Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress registered a six-on-six clean sweep.

US will annex Greenland for global security: Trump

US will annex Greenland for global security: Trump

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Speaking to reporters during a meeting with Rutte at the White House on Thursday (local time), Trump said the US needs Greenland for "international security" and hinted at future discussions on the matter.