News for 'State Governments'

Hours after joining BJP, three ex-TMC MPs get RS tickets from Bengal

Hours after joining BJP, three ex-TMC MPs get RS tickets from Bengal

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Three former Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MPs, including Sushmita Dev and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday and, within hours, were named the saffron party's candidates for the Rajya Sabha bypolls from West Bengal, underlining both their political rehabilitation and the party's calibrated shift in inducting leaders from the erstwhile ruling dispensation.

Satluj Review: Brave Political Drama

Satluj Review: Brave Political Drama

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Satluj is a chilling reminder of what happens when a state is allowed to become judge, jury and executioner, asserts Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Pharma distributor's licence cancelled over Kota C-section deaths

Pharma distributor's licence cancelled over Kota C-section deaths

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The World Health Organization has requested information from the Indian government regarding the alleged supply of spurious oxytocin injections linked to the deaths of five women in Kota hospitals. This comes after regulatory action, including the cancellation of manufacturing licenses for Jackson Laboratories units, following joint inspections by drug control bodies. The government is investigating the matter, emphasising a zero-tolerance approach to quality violations.

Red Alert in Wayanad after landslide

Red Alert in Wayanad after landslide

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Kerala's Wayanad district is under a red alert due to very heavy rainfall and a landslide at the Kalladi tunnel project site, resulting in one confirmed death, seven hospitalised, and seven missing. Neighbouring Kozhikode is also under a red alert, with orange alerts for other districts. Evacuation efforts are underway, and the landslide pushed a bus into a river.

Allahabad High Court Seeks UP Government's Stand On History Sheet Plea

Allahabad High Court Seeks UP Government's Stand On History Sheet Plea

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Allahabad High Court has requested the Uttar Pradesh government to respond to a petition filed by Ashutosh Maharaj, challenging the opening of his history sheet by the police. Maharaj, who is also involved in the Shahi Idgah-Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute, claims his name should be removed from the police surveillance register.

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.

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

At least 32 people have been killed and over 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck western Venezuela, with Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declaring La Guaira a disaster zone and warning the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.

SIT questions Ram temple trust officials over donation theft allegations

SIT questions Ram temple trust officials over donation theft allegations

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Uttar Pradesh government has questioned Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and administrator Gopal Rao regarding allegations of donation money theft and financial mismanagement at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Abuse videos: Capgemini shuts Bengaluru creche; reviews India facilities

Abuse videos: Capgemini shuts Bengaluru creche; reviews India facilities

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Capgemini has temporarily closed its Bengaluru on-campus daycare facility following reports and viral videos of alleged toddler abuse by caregivers. The IT firm is reassessing all its daycare providers across India and providing support to affected families. This action comes after Bengaluru police arrested two nannies in connection with the alleged abuse, which included threatening and mistreating children. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge condemned the incident, highlighting its negative impact on 'Brand Bengaluru' and questioning the company's due diligence.

Bengal to begin Census in August; CM blames previous regime for delay

Bengal to begin Census in August; CM blames previous regime for delay

Rediff.com29 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that census operations in the state would commence on August 1 and continue until the end of February next year. He criticised the previous government for delaying the process and highlighted the importance of the census for the state.

60-day prohibitory orders in Dharmatala ahead of TMC's July 21 rally

60-day prohibitory orders in Dharmatala ahead of TMC's July 21 rally

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Kolkata police on Tuesday imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the Dharmatala area, including the traditional venue of Trinamool Congress' annual July 21 Martyrs' Day rally, for 60 days, citing intelligence inputs about possible violent demonstrations that could disrupt public order and traffic.

Over 20 lakh aspirants take NEET re-test in India, abroad amid tight security

Over 20 lakh aspirants take NEET re-test in India, abroad amid tight security

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The NEET-UG re-exam was held at centres across the country and overseas on Sunday amid tight security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the examination.

May 9 set for Bengal govt swearing-in: State BJP chief

May 9 set for Bengal govt swearing-in: State BJP chief

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The newly elected BJP-led government in West Bengal will take oath on May 9, coinciding with Rabindranath Tagore's birth anniversary, according to West Bengal BJP President Samik Bhattacharya. He also addressed post-election incidents and urged party workers to celebrate responsibly.

India Set To Introduce Dedicated AI Regulation Framework

India Set To Introduce Dedicated AI Regulation Framework

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

India's IT Secretary S Krishnan announced that the government is considering a dedicated regulatory framework for Artificial Intelligence, moving beyond existing IT rules to address challenges like deepfakes and synthetic content. This comes as global policymakers grapple with AI's rapid emergence and its implications.

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

A Class 8 student in Bengaluru died by suicide, with her parents alleging harassment and humiliation by school staff. The education department has launched an inquiry into the incident, which occurred after the girl and classmates complained about a teacher's harsh behaviour.

Mahua Moitra alleges BJP workers hurled eggs at her during protest

Mahua Moitra alleges BJP workers hurled eggs at her during protest

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

TMC MP Mahua Moitra alleged that BJP workers hurled eggs and raised slogans against her during a protest in West Bengal's Nadia district. She accused the BJP of orchestrating the incident, which occurred outside a party MLA's residence. This follows a similar incident in June where BJP Mahila Morcha workers allegedly attempted to attack her.

Have not been removed from Ram Temple trust, clarifies Gopal Rao

Have not been removed from Ram Temple trust, clarifies Gopal Rao

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Gopal Nagarakatte alias Gopal Rao, a special invitee member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has clarified his status amidst allegations and an ongoing donation theft probe. Rao stated he was asked to temporarily step away from meetings, not removed, and denied all allegations except those related to the theft. His remarks follow the Trust's announcement of other resignations and his own removal as an administrator, as a Special Investigation Team continues to probe nearly 70 suspected instances of theft at the Ram Temple.

Indian-Origin Founders Build Global Space Exchange

Indian-Origin Founders Build Global Space Exchange

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Nebex, founded by former Axiom Space executives, aims to build commercial infrastructure for the global space economy.

Parliamentary panel flags recurring exam irregularities, seeks reforms

Parliamentary panel flags recurring exam irregularities, seeks reforms

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

A parliamentary committee has voiced concerns over ongoing examination irregularities despite government measures, recommending the Ministry of Education publish a time-bound roadmap for reforms. The panel also urged a nationwide blacklist of firms involved in exam processes and suggested utilising the National Testing Agency's financial surplus to enhance its capabilities.

TMC claims high voter turnout backs Mamata's governance

TMC claims high voter turnout backs Mamata's governance

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The TMC has refuted Prime Minister Modi's claim that high voter turnout in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly polls indicates a mandate for change, asserting it reflects support for Mamata Banerjee and her government's development agenda.

Khamenei Funeral Signals Shift In India-Iran Relations

Khamenei Funeral Signals Shift In India-Iran Relations

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

It is an unusual choice to depute a retired general for the funeral of a revered religious figure but a thoughtful one in an attempt to inject verve into the bilateral relationship and restore the equilibrium in India's West Asian policies, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

West Bengal Transfers Land To BSF For India-Bangladesh Border Fencing

West Bengal Transfers Land To BSF For India-Bangladesh Border Fencing

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

The West Bengal government has transferred approximately 32 acres of land to the Border Security Force (BSF) for fencing along the India-Bangladesh border, a process that had been pending for several years. The state cabinet also approved proposals for additional land transfers for permanent border outposts and further fencing work in various districts.

Operation Mule Hunt 2.0 Uncovers Massive Cyber Fraud Network

Operation Mule Hunt 2.0 Uncovers Massive Cyber Fraud Network

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Patan Police have busted a large-scale cyber fraud racket, arresting 14 individuals involved in illegal transactions worth Rs 398.43 crore through 13 'mule accounts'. The operation, dubbed "Operation Mule Hunt 2.0", uncovered a network linked to 228 inter-state cyber fraud complaints, where individuals were lured to open bank accounts used to channel proceeds of cyber crimes.

Govt warns Meta over WhatsApp username feature, slaps notice

Govt warns Meta over WhatsApp username feature, slaps notice

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The Indian government has issued a notice to Meta regarding WhatsApp's upcoming username feature, warning the platform not to roll it out until concerns about potential fraud, impersonation, and public safety are addressed to the government's satisfaction.

Supreme Court upholds bail for Sonam Raghuvanshi in honeymoon murder case

Supreme Court upholds bail for Sonam Raghuvanshi in honeymoon murder case

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has declined to stay the Meghalaya High Court's order granting bail to Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused of murdering her husband during their honeymoon. Despite the state's plea citing serious allegations, the apex court noted her release and compliance with bail conditions, scheduling further hearing post-reopening.

GST @ 10: Focus Shifts To AI-Led Compliance, Faster Refunds, Simpler Tax

GST @ 10: Focus Shifts To AI-Led Compliance, Faster Refunds, Simpler Tax

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

As India marks a decade of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the focus is shifting towards enhancing efficiency through artificial intelligence, data sharing, and process simplification. The reform, which unified India's indirect tax system, has significantly broadened the tax base and boosted revenues, with future plans including a streamlined two-tier rate structure and continued technological integration to reduce compliance costs and combat evasion.

Fresh outrage as Tamil anthem pushed to third spot again

Fresh outrage as Tamil anthem pushed to third spot again

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Fresh political friction has erupted in Tamil Nadu following the cabinet swearing-in ceremony, where the Tamil Thai Valthu was once again played third during an official ceremony. This marks the third consecutive occasion where the Tamil anthem has been placed third in the protocol order, triggering fresh criticism and political reactions across the state regarding the government's failure to uphold regional ceremonial traditions.

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

FIFA has strongly defended Brazilian referee Raphael Claus after US President Donald Trump questioned his integrity following a controversial red card shown to US striker Folarin Balogun at the World Cup.

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Punjab jails minister Dr Ravjot Singh has warned that jail superintendents and concerned officials will be held responsible for any violent incidents, security breaches, or administrative lapses within prisons, and will face strict disciplinary action.

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Punjab jails minister Dr Ravjot Singh has warned that jail superintendents and concerned officials will be held responsible for any violent incidents, security breaches, or administrative lapses within prisons, and will face strict disciplinary action.

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Notwithstanding the economic complementarities and the host of agreements for deepening economic relation on a host of areas, both sides share common viewpoints on the foreign policy domain and seek common grounds to serve as a counterweight to China, notes Dr Rajaram Panda.

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Stepping up attack against Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke on Friday announced the launch of a nationwide campaign to demand his resignation and exhorted students, farmers and civil society groups to join him at Jantar Mantar on June 28.

Assam Government Argues Zubeen Garg Death Case

Assam Government Argues Zubeen Garg Death Case

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Assam government, led by Advocate General Devajit Saikia, has commenced arguments in the Zubeen Garg death case before a special fast-track court. The government aims to ensure no loopholes are left in the charge framing process, despite differing conclusions from Singapore Police.

How Haryana's Auto-Mutation System Is Revolutionising Land Records

How Haryana's Auto-Mutation System Is Revolutionising Land Records

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Haryana has significantly reformed its land records administration, reducing pending mutation cases by over 90% and implementing an auto-mutation system. This digitisation effort aims to make land management faster, more transparent, and technology-driven, improving efficiency and public trust.

Up to state government, says Rupee logo creator on change

Up to state government, says Rupee logo creator on change

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

IIT Guwahati Professor D Udaya Kumar, who designed the Indian rupee symbol, has refused to comment on the controversy surrounding the Tamil Nadu government's new rupee logo for the state budget. Kumar's father was a DMK MLA, but the professor insists it's a coincidence and he has no opinion on the state government's decision to use a Tamil letter for the rupee symbol in its budget logo.

How India Can Lead In AI-Native Governance, According To ServiceNow

How India Can Lead In AI-Native Governance, According To ServiceNow

Rediff.com7 May 2026

ServiceNow Vice Chairman Nick Tzitzon highlights India's potential to develop an AI-native government model, emphasising enhanced public services, data privacy, and economic growth.

Odisha CM Under Fire For Alleged Rise In Police Brutality

Odisha CM Under Fire For Alleged Rise In Police Brutality

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Opposition parties in Odisha, BJD and Congress, have criticised Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accusing him of a surge in police brutality. The allegations stem from a custodial death in Ganjam district and other instances of alleged police misconduct. The BJP has defended the government, stating that prompt action has been taken in response to these cases.

Govt Assures E20 Fuel Use is Safe, Won't Affect Vehicle Insurance Validity

Govt Assures E20 Fuel Use is Safe, Won't Affect Vehicle Insurance Validity

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The Indian government has dismissed concerns that the use of E20 fuel could affect the validity of vehicle insurance policies, stating that the ethanol blending programme remains safe, consumer-friendly, and economically beneficial.

Vijayvargiya's 'RSS officers' claim triggers uproar

Vijayvargiya's 'RSS officers' claim triggers uproar

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya's comments about administrative officials rushing to show RSS affiliation after the BJP came to power have ignited a political controversy. The Congress party has strongly criticised the remarks, calling them a threat to the neutrality and constitutional dignity of the bureaucracy and demanding a constitutional review.

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Indian government has amended the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) rules, introducing stricter regulations for NGOs receiving foreign funds. Key changes include mandatory selection of predefined purposes and areas of operation, restrictions on foreign nationals as key functionaries, and explicit exclusion of proselytisation from certain faith-based activities. The amendments also introduce minimum spending limits, enhanced financial accountability, and increased transparency requirements, including social media disclosure and ultimate donor identification.