News for 'Political Weekly'

Not funny: With fresh controversy, stand-up comics come under lens again

Not funny: With fresh controversy, stand-up comics come under lens again

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Recent stand-up comedy clips from Pranit More and Madhur Virli, featuring jokes about sexual coercion, rape, and necrophilia, have ignited a fierce debate in India over consent, normalising rape culture, and trivialising sexual assault, leading to FIRs and public apologies.

'A little bit of movement' seen in Iran peace talks: Marco Rubio

'A little bit of movement' seen in Iran peace talks: Marco Rubio

Rediff.com22 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that discussions aimed at halting the conflict with Iran have shown "some slight progress," while simultaneously echoing Washington's dissatisfaction with its NATO allies.

Bengal mulls holding centres near Bangladesh border

Bengal mulls holding centres near Bangladesh border

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The West Bengal government is considering establishing holding centres near the Petrapole border in North 24 Parganas district to manage growing movement and congestion in border areas.

Clash Over Goat Sacrifice Attempt Rocks Thane Housing Society

Clash Over Goat Sacrifice Attempt Rocks Thane Housing Society

Rediff.com27 May 2026

A dispute over sacrificial goats in a Thane housing society led to clashes, slogan-shouting, and heightened security, raising community tensions.

My Friend, Chief Minister V D Satheesan

My Friend, Chief Minister V D Satheesan

Rediff.com22 May 2026

'The most enduring part of Satheesan's personality is he is good at heart. That is the reason why everybody, from the old to small children, get attracted to him.'

West Bengal govt mandates Vande Mataram in madrassas

West Bengal govt mandates Vande Mataram in madrassas

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The West Bengal government has mandated the singing of 'Vande Mataram' at assembly prayers in all madrassas with immediate effect. This decision follows a similar directive for all schools in the state and aims to bring uniformity in assembly practices across institutions.

Mohanlal To Mammootty: 15 Malayalam Actors Who Shone in Bollywood

Mohanlal To Mammootty: 15 Malayalam Actors Who Shone in Bollywood

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

From Mohanlal's commanding act in Company to Dulquer Salmaan's chilling turn in Chup, these Malayalam stars proved they could shine far beyond Mollywood.

Jharkhand Minority Commission Chairman Expresses Grave Concern Over Rising Crime Against Minorities

Jharkhand Minority Commission Chairman Expresses Grave Concern Over Rising Crime Against Minorities

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Jharkhand State Minority Commission Chairman Hedayatullah Khan has voiced serious concerns over a surge in crimes against minority community members across the state, including the recent discovery of two minor siblings' bodies in Hazaribag and the disappearance of a three-year-old girl in Jamshedpur. Khan criticised the administration's handling of these cases, citing police negligence in registering an FIR for the missing girl, and demanded impartial investigations and accountability from senior police officials.

BJP MLA Criticises Mamata Banerjee After Meeting CM Adhikari

BJP MLA Criticises Mamata Banerjee After Meeting CM Adhikari

Rediff.com27 May 2026

BJP MLA Ratna Debnath, mother of the RG Kar rape-murder victim, met West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and criticised TMC leader Mamata Banerjee over her election loss, linking it to her fight for justice in her daughter's case.

After decades, Cong MLAs set to join Tamil Nadu cabinet

After decades, Cong MLAs set to join Tamil Nadu cabinet

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Tamil Nadu cabinet will be expanded with the inclusion of two Congress MLAs in the C Joseph Vijay-led ministry, marking the national party's return to government in Tamil Nadu after decades.

Eradicating Cockroaches Isn't Easy

Eradicating Cockroaches Isn't Easy

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A wellspring fuelling the CJP tsunami is the high levels of youth unemployment. Millions of youngsters, including extremely over-qualified people, apply in desperation for any job that is advertised. No government has been able to deliver on this front and things may get worse as artificial intelligence enters the workforce, points out Devangshu Datta.

Cockroach Janata Party's X handle withheld, founder starts new account

Cockroach Janata Party's X handle withheld, founder starts new account

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Cockroach Janata Party, which according to Dipke had 201,000 followers on X, came about following a controversy over Chief Justice of India Surya Kant using "parasites" and "cockroaches" while pulling up a lawyer for his plea seeking senior designation.

Lalu, Rabri's security cover withdrawn, RJD men guard home

Lalu, Rabri's security cover withdrawn, RJD men guard home

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

RJD spokesperson Shakti Yadav staged a protest outside Rabri Devi's residence after the Bihar government downgraded the security cover for the Lalu Prasad family. The RJD alleges this is an insult and a threat, while the ruling NDA maintains the decision is based on standard security protocols and should be respected. The move follows the allotment of Rabri Devi's long-occupied bungalow to a BJP minister.

Nitish retains trusted aide Sanjay Jha in JD-U revamp, keeps son out

Nitish retains trusted aide Sanjay Jha in JD-U revamp, keeps son out

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar has announced a new list of national office bearers for the party, including a vice president and 11 general secretaries. The list does not include Kumar's son Nishant. Sanjay Kumar Jha remains the national working president.

CID storms Mamata's residence, Abhishek's office in forgery probe

CID storms Mamata's residence, Abhishek's office in forgery probe

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

A CID team visited the Trinamool Congress (TMC)'s central office in Kolkata as part of an investigation into alleged forged signatures of MLAs. The controversy, which involves a proposal for the Leader of Opposition, has triggered an unprecedented split within the party, with a rebel faction electing its own leader. TMC leaders prevented the CID from entering the premises, citing the absence of national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

INLD Alleges Bias In Haryana Government Job Recruitment

INLD Alleges Bias In Haryana Government Job Recruitment

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) staged a protest in Panchkula, alleging that the BJP government in Haryana is unfairly recruiting individuals from outside the state for government jobs, thereby depriving local youth of employment opportunities.

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.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

Petrol tops Rs 100 across most cities, diesel nears Rs 100 as prices raised for 4th time

Petrol tops Rs 100 across most cities, diesel nears Rs 100 as prices raised for 4th time

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Petrol and diesel prices in India have seen their fourth increase in less than two weeks, pushing cumulative hikes to nearly Rs 7.5 per litre since May 15, reaching their highest levels since May 2022. This surge, driven by global crude oil costs and the Iran conflict, is expected to exacerbate inflationary pressures and raise transportation costs across the economy.

80 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

80 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Around 80 lakh women in Maharashtra have been disqualified from the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme after failing to meet the e-KYC deadline, leading to accusations from opposition parties that the state government is reducing beneficiaries due to financial constraints.

West Bengal To Boost Border Security With Land Transfer To BSF

West Bengal To Boost Border Security With Land Transfer To BSF

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The West Bengal government will hand over land to the Border Security Force for international boundary fencing and security infrastructure, starting with a 27 km stretch. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said more land would be provided wherever required to strengthen border management in the state.

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'a Great One', while Russia hailed him as the 'doyen of all Indian prime ministers' as world leaders congratulated him on becoming India's longest continuously serving elected representative at the top post.

Telangana Congress Leader Arrested In Advocate Murder Case: Here's Why

Telangana Congress Leader Arrested In Advocate Murder Case: Here's Why

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Hyderabad police have arrested six individuals, including a Telangana Congress leader, in connection with the murder of an advocate. The motive appears to stem from long-standing disputes over Waqf properties and management issues.

Vijay writes to governor staking claim, may run minority govt

Vijay writes to governor staking claim, may run minority govt

Rediff.com5 May 2026

'If a floor test happens, one group of MLAs may abstain to allow the confidence vote to pass. So theoretically, he can run a minority government as long as the others won't join each other to vote him out.'

Cockroach Janta Party founder says all accounts, website taken down

Cockroach Janta Party founder says all accounts, website taken down

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) alleges a crackdown, reporting hacking incidents and account takedowns across its social media platforms following a campaign against the Union Education Minister.

Why KKR's IPL 2026 Campaign Crashed

Why KKR's IPL 2026 Campaign Crashed

Rediff.com28 May 2026

KKR arrived in IPL 2026 with big signings and high expectations. But instead of another title push, the season unravelled into a frustrating mix of injuries and missed opportunities.

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Rediff.com13 May 2026

In a state known for high political literacy and ideological mobilisation, the Congress' inability to quickly settle on a leader after securing a massive mandate has fed a narrative that the party remains excessively dependent on Delhi, deeply faction-ridden and vulnerable to internal sabotage

FIFA World Cup: Australia coach wants Trump at USA match

FIFA World Cup: Australia coach wants Trump at USA match

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Australia's coach, Tony Popovic, believes Donald Trump's potential attendance at their World Cup match against the United States would motivate his team. While midfielder Jackson Irvine voiced concerns about FIFA's Peace Prize to Trump and LGBT rights in the U.S., Popovic remains focused on the team's preparation and player fitness.

Congress Leader Pawan Khera Gets Bail in Assam CM Wife Allegations Case

Congress Leader Pawan Khera Gets Bail in Assam CM Wife Allegations Case

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The Telangana High Court has granted temporary anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case filed by Assam police over allegations against Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife.

ED Raids In Punjab: Money Laundering Probe Intensifies

ED Raids In Punjab: Money Laundering Probe Intensifies

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at multiple locations in Punjab and Chandigarh, including premises linked to an alleged associate of an OSD in the CMO, as part of a money laundering probe into a land fraud case.

Cockroach Janata Party swings into action, demands Modi Minister's resignation

Cockroach Janata Party swings into action, demands Modi Minister's resignation

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The CJP's rapid rise on social media reflects growing digital dissent and youth frustration with issues like unemployment and exam-paper leaks.

Bangladesh seeks friendly ties with India amid border killing concerns

Bangladesh seeks friendly ties with India amid border killing concerns

Rediff.com10 May 2026

A senior adviser to Bangladesh's Prime Minister has expressed a desire for friendly relations with India, while also voicing concern over the recent killings of Bangladeshi nationals along the border.

India, Venezuela vow long-term energy tie-up

India, Venezuela vow long-term energy tie-up

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

India's procurement of Venezuelan crude oil has picked up momentum since April and the South American nation has already emerged as the third largest oil supplier to the country.

'Thiru Joseph Vijay enum naam': Vijay sworn in as Tamil Nadu CM

'Thiru Joseph Vijay enum naam': Vijay sworn in as Tamil Nadu CM

Rediff.com10 May 2026

C Joseph Vijay, leader of the TVK, was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, with the oath of office administered by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath in a ceremony held at Nehru Stadium. The event was attended by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

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.

Shivakumar to take oath as K'taka CM; religious heads, students to attend

Shivakumar to take oath as K'taka CM; religious heads, students to attend

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

D K Shivakumar, the Vokkaliga strongman and state Congress President, is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka today at 4:05 pm at Lok Bhavan. The ceremony will also see some ministers taking oath, though the final list is awaiting approval from the Congress high command.

Horror Rules OTT!

Horror Rules OTT!

Rediff.com1 May 2026

This week's OTT releases offer a diverse range of genres, from the controversial sequel The Kerala Story 2 and the action-packed Man on Fire to the horror-comedy Raakaasa and the political satire TN 2026, ensuring there's something for every viewer.

Sri Lanka Cricket chief Shammi Silva resigns amidst pressure

Sri Lanka Cricket chief Shammi Silva resigns amidst pressure

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Sri Lanka Cricket's chief Shammi Silva and his executive committee resigned following calls for a new administration from the country's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

'Sidelined' in Iran truce: Israeli Oppn slams Netanyahu

'Sidelined' in Iran truce: Israeli Oppn slams Netanyahu

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Lapid said the Israeli military carried out everything that was asked of it, but Netanyahu failed politically and strategically.

French Open: Mensik halts Fonseca, Andreeva storms into last four

French Open: Mensik halts Fonseca, Andreeva storms into last four

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Jakub Mensik became the youngest Czech man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final after beating Joao Fonseca at the French Open, while Mirra Andreeva stormed into the last four and Alexander Zverev kept his title hopes alive.