News for 'Politics of Change'

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Government sources have clarified that a passport has never been considered proof of citizenship in India, a stance consistent for the past 12 years and rooted in the Passport Act 1967. This clarification, reiterated by the Ministry of External Affairs, has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and public figures.

K Bhagyaraj, The King Of Screenplays Passes Into The Ages

K Bhagyaraj, The King Of Screenplays Passes Into The Ages

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Tamil cinema loses its 'King of Screenplay' as legendary filmmaker K Bhagyaraj passes away at 73, leaving behind a timeless legacy of storytelling.

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh has alleged that the BJP's "real and ultimate target" in seeking a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha is to amend the Constitution to end reservation, rather than genuinely implement women's reservation.

Rahul Gandhi turns 56, PM Modi wishes him 'good health, long life'

Rahul Gandhi turns 56, PM Modi wishes him 'good health, long life'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi received birthday wishes from across the political spectrum as he turned 56, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and various INDIA bloc leaders extending their greetings and praising his dedication to democratic values and the welfare of the marginalised.

FIFA World Cup: Seattle's LGBTQ community to turn Egypt-Iran tie into pride statement

FIFA World Cup: Seattle's LGBTQ community to turn Egypt-Iran tie into pride statement

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Seattle's LGBTQ community members say they hope that this Friday's World Cup "Pride Match" between Egypt and Iran, two countries where homosexuality is criminalised, can be an opportunity to change minds.

Op Tiger turns real; 2 Uddhav MPs switch to Shinde Sena

Op Tiger turns real; 2 Uddhav MPs switch to Shinde Sena

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Two Lok Sabha MPs from Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena-UBT, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar and Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar, have confirmed their defection to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, citing reasons including a fund crunch and Thackeray's absence from local body polls. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde have virtually acknowledged the success of 'Operation Tiger', aimed at splitting Thackeray's faction.

'Vijay Brings A Modern Look As Youth Are With Him'

'Vijay Brings A Modern Look As Youth Are With Him'

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

'Present day youth are not interested in the past. They want to see what you are going to do now.'

'Real TMC' rules out merger with Cong, to support NDA

'Real TMC' rules out merger with Cong, to support NDA

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee has declared his dissident camp as the 'real Trinamool Congress,' claiming the support of 64 MLAs and a growing number of MPs, and explicitly stating they have no plans to merge with the Congress.

Pressure mounts on UK PM Starmer as Burnham emerges as challenger

Pressure mounts on UK PM Starmer as Burnham emerges as challenger

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Keir Starmer has come under mounting pressure to resign as the leader of the Labour Party to pave the way for Andy Burnham to take over as the new British Prime Minister.

BCCI Secretary On 2027 World Cup Roadmap: Not For Public Consumption

BCCI Secretary On 2027 World Cup Roadmap: Not For Public Consumption

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated that India's roadmap for the 2027 World Cup, including discussions on senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, is confidential and not for public consumption. He also clarified that the BCCI adheres strictly to the Government of India's policies regarding bilateral tours, such as the potential resumption of ties with Bangladesh, without concern for the political situation in other countries.

Siddaramaiah announces resignation at breakfast meet with ministers

Siddaramaiah announces resignation at breakfast meet with ministers

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has informed his cabinet colleagues of his decision to step down, according to official sources. The move comes after the Congress high command reportedly asked him to make way for a leadership change in the state, potentially offering him a central role in the party.

DMK to boycott INDIA meet, to sit separately in Lok Sabha

DMK to boycott INDIA meet, to sit separately in Lok Sabha

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is reportedly set to skip the upcoming INDIA bloc meeting in New Delhi, signalling a growing rift with the Congress party. This development follows a political realignment in Tamil Nadu where Congress allied with the TVK, leading to the end of its long-standing cooperation with the DMK and a request for separate seating in the Lok Sabha.

'Himanta Biswa Sarma Is the Answer': Sushmita Dev

'Himanta Biswa Sarma Is the Answer': Sushmita Dev

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

'It's a bit uncertain. Let's see what happens. But he is the top man of Assam, and since my politics is in Assam, I thought it's best to seek his guidance before I take any decision.'

Bandi jacket in, colonial legacy out in Army uniform overhaul

Bandi jacket in, colonial legacy out in Army uniform overhaul

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Indian Army has removed several colonial-era vestiges from its dress regulations, the mandatory carriage of swords by Reviewing Officers, and the use of pouch belts with certain mess dresses. It has also dropped the use of archaic terminology such as "Royal".

'Won't leave Mamata': Shatrughan Sinha as TMC leaders abandon her

'Won't leave Mamata': Shatrughan Sinha as TMC leaders abandon her

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha has affirmed his unwavering support for TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, stating he will not abandon her during difficult times. The Asansol MP highlighted Banerjee's past support for him and her continued strong vote share in West Bengal, despite recent electoral setbacks and internal party divisions.

Cockroach Party appoints journalist, filmmaker as spokespersons

Cockroach Party appoints journalist, filmmaker as spokespersons

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

CJP, launched last month, has rapidly gained social media traction among students and young people focusing on youth and education issues

BJP backs Arunachal CM Khandu after SC-directed CBI probe into contracts

BJP backs Arunachal CM Khandu after SC-directed CBI probe into contracts

Rediff.com31 May 2026

The BJP in Arunachal Pradesh has voiced its support for Chief Minister Pema Khandu amidst speculation about his political future following a Supreme Court-directed CBI inquiry into alleged corruption.

UP Doctor Accused Of Rape, Forced Abortion Of Dalit Employee

UP Doctor Accused Of Rape, Forced Abortion Of Dalit Employee

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

A doctor in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, has been booked for allegedly raping a Dalit woman employee on the pretext of marriage and forcing her to undergo an abortion. The case, which involves allegations of religious conversion pressure and dissatisfaction with initial police action, is currently under investigation.

'Trump Genuinely Likes India'

'Trump Genuinely Likes India'

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

'The flip side of this is that he won't hesitate to call out India if he thinks its policies are hurting US economic interests or border US foreign policy goals.'

Iran blames 'shifting US positions' for stalled talks, demands Lebanon ceasefire

Iran blames 'shifting US positions' for stalled talks, demands Lebanon ceasefire

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has accused the United States of frequently changing its positions and complicating efforts to reach an understanding, stating that these shifts disrupt diplomatic processes and prolong negotiations. He also linked any potential agreement with the US to an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, accusing Israel of escalating conflict to derail diplomatic efforts.

'This is betrayal': Mamata loyalists as TMC rebels move closer to BJP

'This is betrayal': Mamata loyalists as TMC rebels move closer to BJP

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders Kalyan Banerjee and Kirti Azad have launched a scathing attack on rebel party MPs, accusing them of lacking political morality, maintaining links with the BJP, and abandoning party workers amidst alleged harassment and political attacks.

BJP vows to change place names and tackle infiltration in West Bengal if elected

BJP vows to change place names and tackle infiltration in West Bengal if elected

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

BJP national president Nitin Nabin has pledged to change place names deemed antithetical to West Bengal's culture and address Bangladeshi infiltration if the party wins the state election.

I will likely be arrested at Delhi airport: Cockroach Janta Party founder

I will likely be arrested at Delhi airport: Cockroach Janta Party founder

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, expresses concerns about potential arrest upon his return to India, but remains committed to protesting against the Union Education Minister over alleged shortcomings in the education system.

Mohamed Nasheed: Democratic Institutions, Not Bombing, Can Bring Change

Mohamed Nasheed: Democratic Institutions, Not Bombing, Can Bring Change

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed advocates for building democratic institutions over military intervention in resolving international conflicts, particularly in the context of the escalating West Asia crisis. He also discusses the impact of the conflict on the Maldives' tourism-dependent economy and calls for a stronger, more understanding India in the Indian Ocean Region.

Cockroach Party is the outcome of youth's frustration: BJP ally

Cockroach Party is the outcome of youth's frustration: BJP ally

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has stated that the ban on the Cockroach Janata Party's social media handles is a symptom of widespread frustration among India's youth regarding employment, competitive examinations, and economic pressures, urging the government to address these concerns through policy changes.

Karnataka Leaders Laud RCB's Second IPL Title

Karnataka Leaders Laud RCB's Second IPL Title

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Karnataka's chief minister-designate D K Shivakumar and outgoing chief minister Siddaramaiah congratulated Royal Challengers Bengaluru on winning their second consecutive Indian Premier League title. Shivakumar criticised IPL organisers for moving the final match venue to Gujarat, calling it an injustice to Karnataka and alleging political motivation.

Now TMC split reaches LS as 20 MPs form 'separate bloc', back NDA

Now TMC split reaches LS as 20 MPs form 'separate bloc', back NDA

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Amidst the INDIA bloc conclave in Delhi, a significant number of Trinamool Congress MPs convened a closed-door meeting, signalling a deepening internal rebellion and discontent within the party's parliamentary ranks following recent electoral setbacks.

Why Is Odisha BJD Questioning Dharmendra Pradhan's Family Trust?

Why Is Odisha BJD Questioning Dharmendra Pradhan's Family Trust?

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Odisha's opposition BJD has requested Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to clarify his family's connection with the Vikas Foundation Trust, which is alleged to have purchased properties in the US. BJP leaders have dismissed the allegations as a smear campaign.

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Obstruction

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Obstruction

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared that the TMC will proceed with its planned sit-in protest against alleged attacks on party leaders and workers, as well as the Railways' hawker eviction drive, despite the police denying permission for the event.

Worried Children, stressed parents join 'Cockroach' protest

Worried Children, stressed parents join 'Cockroach' protest

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Students, college-goers, competitive exam aspirants, and parents gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for a protest organised by supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party, expressing deep concerns over recurring examination controversies, result uncertainties, and a perceived lack of accountability within the education system.

'Mamata Banerjee's Life Is In Danger Inside Her Home'

'Mamata Banerjee's Life Is In Danger Inside Her Home'

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

'Those who have drained Mamata Banerjee's blood -- they are the ones calling us traitors.'

Shiv Sena-style split in Bengal? 58 MLAs back expelled TMC leader Ritabrata Banerjee

Shiv Sena-style split in Bengal? 58 MLAs back expelled TMC leader Ritabrata Banerjee

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Expelled TMC MLA Ritabrata Banerjee has garnered support from 58 legislators, who have proposed him as the new leader of the legislative party to West Bengal Assembly Speaker Rathindra Bose, while still acknowledging Mamata Banerjee as their 'chairperson'.

Siddaramaiah all set to step down, holds breakfast meet

Siddaramaiah all set to step down, holds breakfast meet

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Amidst growing speculation about a potential leadership change in Karnataka, senior Congress leaders are meeting to discuss the future of the state government. The meeting follows months of rumours regarding a transition, with D K Shivakumar potentially succeeding Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister.

DMK writes to Speaker for separate seating in LS after Congress break-up

DMK writes to Speaker for separate seating in LS after Congress break-up

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam on Friday sought a change in seating arrangement for its MPs in the Lok Sabha, saying their alliance with the Congress has ended and it would not be appropriate for its members to sit alongside those of the Congress.

Sack Pradhan or...: Cockroach Party sets 7-day deadline for govt

Sack Pradhan or...: Cockroach Party sets 7-day deadline for govt

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a youth-led online campaign turned protest movement, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the government, demanding the resignation or sacking of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in examinations and recruitment tests. The CJP, which organised a protest at Jantar Mantar, warned of nationwide agitation if their demands are not met.

Sidda's journey: From Janata Parivar to Karnataka's longest-serving CM

Sidda's journey: From Janata Parivar to Karnataka's longest-serving CM

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Siddaramaiah, a veteran politician with roots in the Janata Parivar, has had a remarkable journey, consolidating his position in the Congress party to become the longest-serving Chief Minister of Karnataka.

Governor accepts Siddaramaiah's resignation

Governor accepts Siddaramaiah's resignation

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation, and the Governor dissolved the Council of Ministers. Siddaramaiah will continue as CM until alternative arrangements are made. D K Shivakumar is likely to succeed him, and both are in Delhi to discuss the transition with the Congress high command.

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Iran's soccer team arrived in the United States for the first time at this World Cup on Sunday, landing at Los Angeles International Airport and holding a press conference on the same day that a peace deal between the two nations was announced.

'Pressure To Bear A Son Is More In The City'

'Pressure To Bear A Son Is More In The City'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'Even lower middle class parents in cities opt for just one child. A son is a must.'

'Shivakumar Is The Richest Politician In The Country'

'Shivakumar Is The Richest Politician In The Country'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'In the (election) affidavit, he had declared Rs 1,400 crores as his assets. He has educational institutions, real estate, malls, etc.'