News for 'Public Affairs Centre'

'How can blood and cricket go together?'

'How can blood and cricket go together?'

Rediff.com12 Sep 2025

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Friday slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the India and Pakistan clash in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025.

Manipur name row: Meitei group raises bus incident with Centre

Manipur name row: Meitei group raises bus incident with Centre

Rediff.com28 May 2025

A delegation of a Meitei civil society group from Manipur has conveyed its concerns to the Centre over an incident where the state's name written on a bus windshield was covered with white paper. The group, Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), expressed its commitment to peace and its willingness to cooperate in efforts to restore normalcy. They also raised concerns over the growing threats posed by narco-terrorism, cross border illegal immigration, and widespread illegal opium cultivation in the state.

Why Bharat Ratna still eludes Major Dhyan Chand?

Why Bharat Ratna still eludes Major Dhyan Chand?

Rediff.com29 Aug 2025

In 2021, the Centre renamed the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna as Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. But many wonder, why despite the public sentiment the country's highest civilian honour continues to elude the man who put Indian hockey on the world map.

'Everybody wants publicity': SC says no to fresh pleas against Waqf law

'Everybody wants publicity': SC says no to fresh pleas against Waqf law

Rediff.com16 May 2025

As soon as one of the pleas came up for hearing on Friday, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, objected and said there can't be an "endless" filing of pleas challenging the Act.

Waqf Islamic concept but not essential to it: Centre to SC

Waqf Islamic concept but not essential to it: Centre to SC

Rediff.com21 May 2025

The Indian government defended the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 in the Supreme Court, arguing that waqf, while an Islamic concept, is not an essential part of Islam. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated that waqf is essentially charity, which is recognized across religions, and cannot be considered a fundamental tenet of any faith. He also argued that the amended law addresses secular aspects of waqf and activities unrelated to Islam, and that "waqf by user" does not grant ownership of public land. Mehta highlighted the extensive consultations involved in the bill's creation, including feedback from various stakeholders. The hearing will continue on Thursday.

'Block Live Telecast Of India-Pak Match In Asia Cup'

'Block Live Telecast Of India-Pak Match In Asia Cup'

Rediff.com23 Aug 2025

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on Friday demanded blocking of live telecast of India-Pakistan match during the Asia Cup next month, citing national interest and public sentiment.

Govt scraps FCRA licence of Wangchuk's NGO amid Ladakh unrest

Govt scraps FCRA licence of Wangchuk's NGO amid Ladakh unrest

Rediff.com25 Sep 2025

The cancellation means the Leh-based institute will no longer be able to receive or utilise foreign funding.

Allow certain good things to happen too: SC on Vantara

Allow certain good things to happen too: SC on Vantara

Rediff.com16 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court acknowledged a clean chit from a special investigation team (SIT) regarding the Vantara zoological rescue and rehabilitation centre in Gujarat's Jamnagar, following allegations of irregularities.

Has Karur Tragedy Halted Vijay's Political Rise?

Has Karur Tragedy Halted Vijay's Political Rise?

Rediff.com28 Sep 2025

The Karur tragedy has exposed the huge gaps in Vijay's understanding of realpolitik, elections and political administration, asserts N Sathiya Moorthy.

Modi's Visit: 'Manipuris Are Disappointed'

Modi's Visit: 'Manipuris Are Disappointed'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2025

'No one anticipated magical solutions or miraculous interventions.' 'However, people across the entire spectrum -- whether residing in the valley or the hills -- expected the prime minister to dedicate at least five to ten minutes to genuinely listening to the voice of the people.'

Oli's exit plunges Nepal back into political uncertainty

Oli's exit plunges Nepal back into political uncertainty

Rediff.com9 Sep 2025

A profile of veteran Nepali politician K P Sharma Oli, detailing his rise to power, his various stints as prime minister, and his impact on Nepal's political landscape.

Sitharaman Orders Banks to Return Unclaimed Citizens' Money

Sitharaman Orders Banks to Return Unclaimed Citizens' Money

Rediff.com23 Sep 2025

Given that a sizeable part of this money is part of the coveted current accounts and savings accounts, it is surprising that banks are not in a hurry to revive these accounts, notes Tamal Bandyopdhyay.

Sidda minister Rajanna axed after remarks on 'vote theft'

Sidda minister Rajanna axed after remarks on 'vote theft'

Rediff.com12 Aug 2025

Karnataka Cooperation Minister K N Rajanna has been asked to resign after allegedly blaming his own Congress government for 'vote theft' in an Assembly segment. The issue sparked controversy and led to demands for clarification in the state assembly.

Turbulence In Tokyo: What It Means For India

Turbulence In Tokyo: What It Means For India

Rediff.com12 Sep 2025

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's sudden resignation after only a year in office has thrown Japan into political turmoil, raising doubts about how the country will handle economic and regional challenges, observes Dr Rajaram Panda.

Do you want border wall to stop immigrants, SC asks govt

Do you want border wall to stop immigrants, SC asks govt

Rediff.com29 Aug 2025

The Supreme Court has questioned the central government about the possibility of constructing a border wall to prevent illegal immigration, drawing parallels with the US border policy. The court also addressed concerns about the detention and deportation of Bengali-speaking migrant workers.

Thermostat Setting: India's Cool Move

Thermostat Setting: India's Cool Move

Rediff.com27 Aug 2025

'Are there other ways to reduce the energy airconditioners consume?' asks Ambi Parameswaran.

'Gen Z Want Radical Change In Nepal'

'Gen Z Want Radical Change In Nepal'

Rediff.com11 Sep 2025

'They mean business, but business as usual is unacceptable to them'

BJP-AIADMK Gift Stalin An Election Issue

BJP-AIADMK Gift Stalin An Election Issue

Rediff.com16 Sep 2025

Amit Shah seemingly encouraging AIADMK dissident Sengottaiyan after party boss Edappadi K Palaniswami had removed his one-time mentor from all party posts has not gone down well with party cadres. They are now ready to buy Team EPS' theory that the BJP and Amit Shah are out to liquidate the AIADMK, points out N Sathiya Moorthy.

FinMin Raps PSBs on Property Doc Delays

FinMin Raps PSBs on Property Doc Delays

Rediff.com4 Aug 2025

State Bank of India has 18,000 pending cases and Bank of Baroda has around 1,000 cases.

'Saudi Arabia Won't Align With Pakistan Against India'

'Saudi Arabia Won't Align With Pakistan Against India'

Rediff.com19 Sep 2025

'The background for the Saudi-Pakistan agreement is the fact that the regional security order has collapsed due to the Israeli attack on Doha.' 'The Americans have largely abandoned their security guarantee for West Asia and the region has no choice but to look at alternatives.'

Cabinet clears Ahmedabad as 'ideal host' for 2030 CWG

Cabinet clears Ahmedabad as 'ideal host' for 2030 CWG

Rediff.com27 Aug 2025

"Commonwealth Games in India would leave lasting impact by boosting tourism, and creating jobs, the Government said in a statement.

Unclear Goals Of The 130th Amendment

Unclear Goals Of The 130th Amendment

Rediff.com2 Sep 2025

'Non-BJP state governments and their leaders, navigating today's political landscape, know well they have no clue what awaits around the corner.' 'The chances of charges pressed and oneself getting parked in custody play out on an uneven playing field,' points out Shyam G Menon.

Takedown Orders: X Takes On Govt

Takedown Orders: X Takes On Govt

Rediff.com2 Jul 2025

X calls the home ministry's Sahyog portal a 'censorship portal', stating it usurps judicial functions.

Maha Guv CP Radhakrishnan named NDA's Vice-Presidential candidate

Maha Guv CP Radhakrishnan named NDA's Vice-Presidential candidate

Rediff.com17 Aug 2025

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has nominated Maharashta Governor Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan as their candidate for Vice-President of India. The announcement was made by BJP President J P Nadda, highlighting Radhakrishnan's extensive public service and cross-party respect.

Why Is The US So Fond Of Asim Munir?

Why Is The US So Fond Of Asim Munir?

Rediff.com12 Aug 2025

Sections in the US State Department and Pentagon have always felt more comfortable dealing with all powerful Pakistani generals instead of elected civilians, points out Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at RA&W.

Vijay's Political Challenge Begins Now

Vijay's Political Challenge Begins Now

Rediff.com22 Aug 2025

Vijay, with his chief ministerial ambitions, is a one-man army, at least as of now, and his campaign team considers him omnipresent. He has to be present in all districts, if not all constituencies at the same time, as there is no second-line leader or platform speaker in the party, who can draw crowds, points out N Sathiya Moorthy.

'This will only increase panic between people and dogs'

'This will only increase panic between people and dogs'

Rediff.com12 Aug 2025

The Supreme Court's order to remove stray dogs from Delhi-NCR localities has sparked mixed reactions, with RWAs welcoming the move and animal rights activists raising concerns about implementation and potential harm.

Dhankhar's Exit: Why RSS Won't Rock Modi's Boat

Dhankhar's Exit: Why RSS Won't Rock Modi's Boat

Rediff.com30 Jul 2025

'Modi's charisma may have weakened as last year's Lok Sabha poll results showed but in the eyes of the Sangh Parivar, it has not waned.' 'Minus a strong BJP government at the Centre for another decade and more, there is apprehension that an anti-Hindutva government could reverse many of the ideological gains that the Modi dispensation has achieved through its three terms,' points out N Sathiya Moorthy.

Will Language Politics Help Didi Win 4th Term?

Will Language Politics Help Didi Win 4th Term?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2025

Will Mamata's bhasha andolan campaign sway Bengal's bhadralok before the 2026 election in the TMC's favour?

Is Modi's 'Mr India' Image Fading?

Is Modi's 'Mr India' Image Fading?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2025

'The Election Commission's involvement in the avoidable SIR controversy has carried a message down to the last voter -- who just does not like it,' observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

What You Must Know About The CEC

What You Must Know About The CEC

Rediff.com4 Aug 2025

As an IAS officer in Kerala, Gyanesh Kumar -- who the Congress described as Amit Shah's 'right hand man' -- had a good working equation with the state's Congress and Left leaders.

NGOs getting foreign funds can't publish newsletters

NGOs getting foreign funds can't publish newsletters

Rediff.com27 May 2025

The Indian government has announced new rules for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) receiving foreign contributions under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). These rules include requiring NGOs to obtain a "Not a Newspaper" certificate from the Registrar of Newspapers for India if they engage in publication-related activities, as well as submitting financial statements and audit reports for the past three years. Additionally, NGOs must submit a commitment letter from the donor, a project report detailing proposed expenses, and a declaration that administrative expenses will not exceed 20% of the foreign contribution.

Tharoor admits to differences with Congress leadership

Tharoor admits to differences with Congress leadership

Rediff.com19 Jun 2025

Congress Working Committee (CWC) member Shashi Tharoor on Thursday said he has differences of opinion with some in the party leadership, but he is not going to speak about them in light of the bypoll in the Nilambur constituency.

I wasn't there during many mistakes of Cong, but...: Rahul Gandhi

I wasn't there during many mistakes of Cong, but...: Rahul Gandhi

Rediff.com4 May 2025

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said he is "more than happy" to take responsibility for everything wrong the party did in its history, including the 1984 Sikh riots. He acknowledged that the party made "a lot of mistakes" when he was not there, but said he has publicly stated that what happened in the 80s was "wrong." The remarks were made during an interaction at Brown University in the US. The video of the interaction was uploaded on the YouTube channel of the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs on Saturday. The BJP has criticized Gandhi for his remarks, accusing him of "ridiculing" the beliefs of Hindus and Sikhs.

Congress to ditch MVA for Maharashtra local body polls?

Congress to ditch MVA for Maharashtra local body polls?

Rediff.com6 Jul 2025

With local body elections approaching in Maharashtra, a significant portion of the Congress party is advocating for contesting independently to regain lost ground amidst the BJP's growing influence. The party is currently part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.

CBI repatriation rate doubles, brings back 134 over 5 years

CBI repatriation rate doubles, brings back 134 over 5 years

Rediff.com17 Jul 2025

The CBI has significantly increased the rate of fugitive repatriation, bringing back 134 individuals in the last five years, doubling the number from the previous decade. This success is attributed to enhanced diplomatic efforts, technological advancements, and improved coordination with Interpol.

I was in the room: Jaishankar on Trump's India-Pak truce claim

I was in the room: Jaishankar on Trump's India-Pak truce claim

Rediff.com1 Jul 2025

Jaishankar said that the Pahalgam attack "was an act of economic warfare. It was meant to destroy tourism in Kashmir, which was the mainstay of the economy. It was also meant to provoke religious violence because people were asked to identify their faith before they were killed."

Stalin Can Win 2026 Poll If...

Stalin Can Win 2026 Poll If...

Rediff.com18 Jul 2025

...the DMK chief minister's campaign -- which includes criticism of the BJP's 'pro-Hindutva, anti-Tamil, anti-federal' policies and building on his own government's social welfare programmes targeting especially women and youth -- appeals to Tamil Nadu's voters in next year's assembly election, explains N Sathiya Moorthy.

What Led Dhankhar To QUIT

What Led Dhankhar To QUIT

Rediff.com23 Jul 2025

The BJP had no option but to get Jagdeep Dhankhar out of its way for the sake of the Modi government's stability, reveals Sheela Bhatt, the legendary political journalist.

Centre to send 50 more CAPF companies to Manipur

Centre to send 50 more CAPF companies to Manipur

Rediff.com18 Nov 2024

The Indian government has sent an additional 50 CAPF companies, comprising over 5,000 personnel, to Manipur to address the challenging security and law and order situation in the northeastern state. This comes after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) deployed 20 additional CAPF companies to the state following violence in Jiribam district. The deployment brings the total number of CAPF companies in Manipur to 218. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will also meet to review the security situation in Manipur and strategize to handle the volatile situation in the state.