News for 'State for Democracy'

SC Orders States to Develop Protocol for Open Prisons

SC Orders States to Develop Protocol for Open Prisons

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court has directed all states and Union territories in India to develop a time-bound protocol for improving the functioning of open prisons, ensuring they serve as effective institutions for reformation and rehabilitation.

'Democracy Is On Sale In Maharashtra'

'Democracy Is On Sale In Maharashtra'

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

'This daylight robbery of elections is happening in the commercial capital of India, Mumbai city, so you can imagine what they will do to win elections in the interiors of India.'

When Votes Come With a Price Tag, Is It Still Democracy?

When Votes Come With a Price Tag, Is It Still Democracy?

Rediff.com28 Jan 2026

The Maharashtra municipal elections showed a troubling shift, where votes were traded for cash, convictions no longer mattered, and ideology became an afterthought, observes Ramesh Menon.

Chouhan Accuses Bengal Government of Sheltering Infiltrators

Chouhan Accuses Bengal Government of Sheltering Infiltrators

Rediff.com1 days ago

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan criticised the West Bengal government over law and order and accused the TMC of sheltering infiltrators and manipulating demographics.

Shirtless protest at AI summit: IYC workers sent to 5-day custody

Shirtless protest at AI summit: IYC workers sent to 5-day custody

Rediff.com21 Feb 2026

The counsel appearing for the arrested protesters argued that they were associated with a political party and had exercised their democratic right to protest peacefully.

Satire should be protected in personality rights cases, X tells HC

Satire should be protected in personality rights cases, X tells HC

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

Social media platform X argues that satire, fair comment, and public speech should be protected from takedown orders in personality rights cases during a Delhi High Court hearing involving Baba Ramdev's lawsuit.

Shirtless protest at AI meet: Youth Cong chief held, rioting charges invoked

Shirtless protest at AI meet: Youth Cong chief held, rioting charges invoked

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian Youth Congress President Uday Bhanu Chib was arrested after a disruptive shirtless protest at the AI Impact Summit in Delhi, leading to further investigation into potential conspiracy and funding.

Not drugs or democracy, but...: Kamala, Mamdani slam Trump over Venezuela

Not drugs or democracy, but...: Kamala, Mamdani slam Trump over Venezuela

Rediff.com4 Jan 2026

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has voiced his opposition to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicols Maduro by the US military, calling it an 'act of war' and a violation of international law. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi also criticized the action, citing lack of congressional authorization.

I'm a Gandhian, Nehruvian, Rajivian, but not a....: Mani Shankar Aiyar

I'm a Gandhian, Nehruvian, Rajivian, but not a....: Mani Shankar Aiyar

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

Congress veteran Mani Shankar Aiyar clarifies his political affiliations, identifying as a Gandhian, Nehruvian, and Rajivian, while explaining his distance from Rahul Gandhi's political approach and his disapproval of Indira Gandhi's Emergency declaration.

Development dawns in Bastar as Maoist fear recedes: Prez Murmu

Development dawns in Bastar as Maoist fear recedes: Prez Murmu

Rediff.com7 Feb 2026

President Droupadi Murmu stated that government actions against Maoists have improved the atmosphere in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, leading to development. She encouraged those who have left violence to trust the Constitution.

Sonia slams Centre's silence on Khamenei's killing

Sonia slams Centre's silence on Khamenei's killing

Rediff.com6 hours ago

Sonia Gandhi has criticised the Modi government's silence on the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, arguing it raises doubts about India's foreign policy direction and credibility.

Despite Cong flak, Aiyar sticks to claim of Vijayan's return

Despite Cong flak, Aiyar sticks to claim of Vijayan's return

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

Aiyar's endorsement of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has ignited a political firestorm, drawing sharp rebukes from his own party.

Modi Inaugurates Micron Semiconductor Plant in Sanand

Modi Inaugurates Micron Semiconductor Plant in Sanand

Rediff.com3 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Micron Technology's semiconductor plant in Sanand, Gujarat, highlighting India's growing presence in the hardware sector and its strong partnership with the United States in AI and chip technologies.

After Keralam, chorus for renaming Delhi, West Bengal

After Keralam, chorus for renaming Delhi, West Bengal

Rediff.com6 days ago

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged the central government to approve West Bengal's request to rename the state, following the approval of a similar proposal for Kerala.

Youth Cong AI protest ignites nationwide BJP-Congress street clashes

Youth Cong AI protest ignites nationwide BJP-Congress street clashes

Rediff.com22 Feb 2026

Indore in Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry and Prakasam in Andhra Pradesh also witnessed a tense atmosphere amid confrontation between the party workers.

Punjab BJP Seeks Probe into Accused's Death in Gurdaspur Policemen Murder Case

Punjab BJP Seeks Probe into Accused's Death in Gurdaspur Policemen Murder Case

Rediff.com4 days ago

Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar has called for an impartial probe into the death of Ranjit Singh, an accused in the murder of two policemen in Gurdaspur, following questions raised about the police encounter.

'It's a real thing': Netanyahu hails 'Modi hug'

'It's a real thing': Netanyahu hails 'Modi hug'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Netanyahu also expressed profound gratitude for the Indian government's steadfast support following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks in southern Israel. Addressing PM Modi, he stated, 'You stood next to Israel, you stood by Israel, you stood for Israel, you stood for the truth. Thank you, my friend.'

'Stay tuned' for Modi-Trump meet: US envoy

'Stay tuned' for Modi-Trump meet: US envoy

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The US President had hosted Modi for an official working visit in Washington, DC, on February 13 last year.

'Pakistan Can Only Disintegrate If Any External Power Intervenes'

'Pakistan Can Only Disintegrate If Any External Power Intervenes'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'If this region destabilises, then we are not far away. This region should not destabilise.'

US, India envoys in China review strategic ties, trade push

US, India envoys in China review strategic ties, trade push

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

David Perdue said in a post on X that the US-India relationship delivers real results through close cooperation in diverse areas, including defence, energy and through Quad engagement.

Sabarimala women's entry issue returns ahead of SC hearing

Sabarimala women's entry issue returns ahead of SC hearing

Rediff.com15 Feb 2026

The Sabarimala temple women's entry issue has resurfaced in Kerala, leading to a political debate between the ruling CPI(M) and the opposition Congress, as the Supreme Court is scheduled to consider review petitions related to its 2018 verdict.

Big thanks to President Trump from 1.4 billion Indians: Modi

Big thanks to President Trump from 1.4 billion Indians: Modi

Rediff.com3 Feb 2026

Modi also said that President Trump's leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity.

The Fall of India's Development Ambitions

The Fall of India's Development Ambitions

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

Like the realisation on the failure of development, we have also internalised the failure on democracy, argues Aakar Patel.

Modi to embark on two-day Israel visit, to boost defence ties

Modi to embark on two-day Israel visit, to boost defence ties

Rediff.com6 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Israel to enhance defence and trade cooperation amid Middle East tensions. Discussions will include defence, security, and the situation in Gaza.

'Abodh Baalak': Kharge-Nadda spat in RS over Rahul

'Abodh Baalak': Kharge-Nadda spat in RS over Rahul

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

Kharge condemned the use of the "abodh balak" term for Gandhi and alleged that BJP MPs can't even speak their mind.

Bengal braces for post-SIR rolls on Saturday amid rising voter tensions

Bengal braces for post-SIR rolls on Saturday amid rising voter tensions

Rediff.com4 days ago

The upcoming publication of West Bengal's electoral rolls is expected to intensify political tensions and debates ahead of the Assembly elections, reflecting concerns about voter inclusion and identity.

India backs Gaza peace plan, Modi tells Israeli Knesset

India backs Gaza peace plan, Modi tells Israeli Knesset

Rediff.com5 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Israeli Parliament, reaffirming India's support for Israel in the face of terrorism and expressing support for the Gaza peace initiative.

India must use current geopolitical churn to build manufacturing scale at home: Amitabh Kant

India must use current geopolitical churn to build manufacturing scale at home: Amitabh Kant

Rediff.com5 days ago

India should resist knee-jerk responses to tariff volatility in the US and instead use the current geopolitical churn to build manufacturing scale at home, former G20 Sherpa and former chief executive officer of NITI Aayog Amitabh Kant said on Wednesday.

Shirtless protest at AI summit: Cong faces backlash; Rahul shown black flags

Shirtless protest at AI summit: Cong faces backlash; Rahul shown black flags

Rediff.com21 Feb 2026

The BJP protesters, carrying placards and raising slogans, slammed the Congress and its leader, Rahul Gandhi, calling them "traitors" for allegedly tarnishing the nation's image.

Maha scraps 5% Muslim quota in jobs, education; Oppn slams move

Maha scraps 5% Muslim quota in jobs, education; Oppn slams move

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

The previous Congress-NCP government had issued an ordinance to grant a 16 per cent quota to Marathas and five per cent to Muslims.

Assam Cong ex-chief Borah quits, seeks time as BJP woos him

Assam Cong ex-chief Borah quits, seeks time as BJP woos him

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

Borah told reporters outside his residence that he has sought time from the Congress high command to reconsider his decision

Tarique Rahman Sworn In As Bangladesh PM

Tarique Rahman Sworn In As Bangladesh PM

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri attended the swearing-in ceremony.

Trump announces trade deal after call with Modi, cuts tariffs

Trump announces trade deal after call with Modi, cuts tariffs

Rediff.com3 Feb 2026

India and the US have agreed to a trade deal that will see Washington reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%, according to US President Donald Trump. The deal also includes commitments from India to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers against the US and to increase purchases of American products.

India joins US-led strategic alliance Pax Silica

India joins US-led strategic alliance Pax Silica

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

India has joined the US-led 'Pax Silica' alliance, aimed at building a resilient supply chain for critical minerals and artificial intelligence, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering economic security.

Tarique Rahman's remarkable turnaround from 17-year self-exile

Tarique Rahman's remarkable turnaround from 17-year self-exile

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

Tarique Rahman, after 17 years in self-exile, has led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to a significant victory, becoming the country's Prime Minister. This marks a major turnaround for the BNP after years of being targeted by the Awami League government.

Shivraj Patil cremated with state honours

Shivraj Patil cremated with state honours

Rediff.com13 Dec 2025

The last rites of veteran Congress leader and former Union minister Shivraj Patil were performed with full state honours in his home district, Latur, in Maharashtra on Saturday, with many top leaders in attendance.

'Historic bond': Trump's message to India on 77th Republic Day

'Historic bond': Trump's message to India on 77th Republic Day

Rediff.com26 Jan 2026

US President Donald Trump greeted India on its 77th Republic Day, highlighting the historic bond between the two democracies amid ongoing trade tensions.

Can India Reset Ties With Bangladesh?

Can India Reset Ties With Bangladesh?

Rediff.com7 days ago

Sensitive issues remain. Water sharing of the Ganga and Teesta rivers. Treatment of minorities, particularly Hindus. Border management. Trade imbalances. Connectivity projects.What happens next will shape not just bilateral ties, but the balance of South Asia itself, points out Ramesh Menon.

BJP MP displays artificial legs in RS, appeals to Opposition

BJP MP displays artificial legs in RS, appeals to Opposition

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

BJP MP C Sadanandan Master addressed the Rajya Sabha, appealing for unity and highlighting the government's achievements while raising concerns about migration in Kerala.

Tarique Rahman clears air on India ties, Sheikh Hasina

Tarique Rahman clears air on India ties, Sheikh Hasina

Rediff.com14 Feb 2026

BNP chairman Tarique Rahman called for maintaining law and order and sought cooperation in building a safe and humane Bangladesh after his party's victory in parliamentary elections.