News for 'Union and State'

Suvendu Adhikari takes oath as 1st BJP CM of West Bengal

Suvendu Adhikari takes oath as 1st BJP CM of West Bengal

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the first BJP chief minister of West Bengal, marking the end of the Trinamool Congress' 15-year rule in the state.

Ravindra Singh Yadav Named New DGP Of Andaman And Nicobar Islands

Ravindra Singh Yadav Named New DGP Of Andaman And Nicobar Islands

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Senior IPS officer Ravindra Singh Yadav has been appointed as the Director General of Police (DGP) of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, succeeding Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal.

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Following through announcements with enforcement of measures is key, as a run through recent Indian economic history shows, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's confidant to archnemesis

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's confidant to archnemesis

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari's rise within the BJP in West Bengal has been marked by strategic victories and relentless opposition to the TMC, culminating in his leadership role within the party's legislative wing.

Delhi To Establish Anti-Narcotics Task Force Police Station

Delhi To Establish Anti-Narcotics Task Force Police Station

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Delhi is set to establish its first dedicated Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) police station as part of a broader initiative to make the city drug-free by 2027, according to LG Taranjit Singh Sandhu.

Man Detained At Assam Swearing-In With Live Ammunition

Man Detained At Assam Swearing-In With Live Ammunition

Rediff.com12 May 2026

A man was detained at the swearing-in ceremony of the new Assam government after being found with live bullets during security screening. The incident occurred shortly before the oath-taking ceremony, attended by high-profile BJP leaders and other dignitaries.

BJP attacks TMC over 'mafia culture' after killing of Suvendu aide

BJP attacks TMC over 'mafia culture' after killing of Suvendu aide

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The BJP has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of fostering a 'mafia culture' and 'maha jungle raj' in West Bengal following the killing of an aide to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. The party alleges the incident reflects institutionalised post-poll violence in the state and demands a CBI probe.

Nine ministers sworn in along with Vijay in Tamil Nadu

Nine ministers sworn in along with Vijay in Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape. His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured a notable victory in its debut election, ending the dominance of DMK and AIADMK.

Assam Governor invites Himanta Biswa Sarma to form govt

Assam Governor invites Himanta Biswa Sarma to form govt

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Himanta Biswa Sarma has been elected as the leader of the BJP-led NDA in the Assam assembly, paving the way for his second consecutive term as chief minister. The NDA secured a two-thirds majority in the recent assembly polls, with the BJP winning 82 seats and its allies AGP and BPF securing 10 seats each.

Why Akhilesh Yadav Holds Amit Shah Responsible For Punjab Blasts

Why Akhilesh Yadav Holds Amit Shah Responsible For Punjab Blasts

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has blamed Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the recent twin blasts in Punjab, echoing similar sentiments expressed by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

'You Are Killing Lakhs And Lakhs Of Citizenships'

'You Are Killing Lakhs And Lakhs Of Citizenships'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

'98 lakhs in Bengal, 97 lakhs in Tamil Nadu, 2.83 crores in Uttar Pradesh.'

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Rediff.com10 May 2026

BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma has been appointed as the Chief Minister of Assam, marking the NDA's third consecutive government in the state. Sarma's swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for May 12, with key political figures expected to attend.

Amit Shah Praises Operation Sindoor's Success

Amit Shah Praises Operation Sindoor's Success

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed Operation Sindoor as a landmark mission, commemorating its first anniversary and underscoring India's military strength and resolve against cross-border terrorism.

'Vote Jehad', 'Muslim League', What Next?

'Vote Jehad', 'Muslim League', What Next?

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The only thing that might make the BJP stop trying to isolate Muslims completely will be if substantial numbers of the community vote for the party that flaunts its animosity towards it, notes Jyoti Punwani.

NEET paper leak: 5 remanded in CBI custody, 2 more arrested

NEET paper leak: 5 remanded in CBI custody, 2 more arrested

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The CBI has taken custody of five individuals arrested in connection with the NEET-UG exam leak and apprehended two more suspects. The agency is investigating the potential involvement of insiders within the National Testing Agency (NTA). Protests continue across the country, demanding accountability and reforms in the examination process.

How India's New AI Weather Forecasts Will Help Farmers

How India's New AI Weather Forecasts Will Help Farmers

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Union Minister Jitendra Singh launched two advanced weather forecast products developed under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), aimed at delivering hyper-local, impact-based and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven weather services across India.

Left falls in Kerala, UDF storms back to power; BJP wins 3 seats

Left falls in Kerala, UDF storms back to power; BJP wins 3 seats

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Initial vote counting in the Kerala Assembly elections indicates a significant lead for the Congress-led UDF, suggesting a potential shift in power.

Class 12 students allege answer sheet mismatch, CBSE begins probe

Class 12 students allege answer sheet mismatch, CBSE begins probe

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The CBSE has taken up on 'top priority' the cases related to alleged mismatched answer sheets and other concerns faced by students in the re-evaluation process, a source in the board said.

NEET-UG Re-Exam On June 21; Computer-Based Test From 2027

NEET-UG Re-Exam On June 21; Computer-Based Test From 2027

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced the NEET-UG re-examination will be held on June 21, with plans to transition to a computer-based test from next year. This decision follows allegations of irregularities in the original exam, prompting strict action and a commitment to ensuring fairness for students.

Modi touches feet of 98-year-old Makhanlal Sarkar in Bengal. Who is he?

Modi touches feet of 98-year-old Makhanlal Sarkar in Bengal. Who is he?

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated senior BJP worker Makhanlal Sarkar at a swearing-in ceremony in West Bengal. Sarkar, 98, is an early grassroots figure associated with the nationalist movement. Suvendu Adhikari took oath as the state's first BJP Chief Minister after defeating Mamata Banerjee.

How India Plans To Boost Its Sports Culture

How India Plans To Boost Its Sports Culture

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya released the Srinagar Khel Sankalp document, outlining a national vision to strengthen sports culture through cooperative federalism, focusing on athlete-centric development and infrastructure expansion.

Four Arrested In Arunachal Pradesh Rhino Horn Smuggling Case

Four Arrested In Arunachal Pradesh Rhino Horn Smuggling Case

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Four individuals have been apprehended in Arunachal Pradesh's Papum Pare district for trafficking a rhinoceros horn valued at approximately Rs 1.2 crore. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the forest department, underscores the government's commitment to wildlife protection and combating organised crime.

Assembly elections see high turnout, women voters outnumber men

Assembly elections see high turnout, women voters outnumber men

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Recent assembly elections across several states in India saw exceptionally high voter participation, with women voters outnumbering men in turnout percentages, according to Election Commission data.

Kerala assembly election results an example of communal harmony: Tharoor

Kerala assembly election results an example of communal harmony: Tharoor

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor cited the Kerala Assembly election results as an example of communal harmony, highlighting instances where voters looked beyond caste and religion.

Were The West Bengal Elections Fair?

Were The West Bengal Elections Fair?

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The extent of doubts over the fairness of this election can be assessed by juxtaposing two figures: Total votes polled by the two principal parties and the number of people who were disallowed from voting this time, observes Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting 'Melody' toffees to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, calling it a 'gimmick' while India faces an 'economic storm'. He accused Modi of prioritising public relations over addressing the struggles of farmers, labourers, and youth, a sentiment echoed by other Congress leaders.

'Challenges Are Not New To Us'

'Challenges Are Not New To Us'

Rediff.com18 May 2026

'Unfortunately the treasury is empty, in zero. So we have to first make money for the development activities of the state, and also to continue the welfare measures.'

Punjab CM Blames BJP For Blasts, BJP Demands Evidence

Punjab CM Blames BJP For Blasts, BJP Demands Evidence

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the BJP of orchestrating recent blasts in the state, alleging it's part of their strategy for the upcoming assembly elections. The BJP has strongly refuted these claims, demanding proof or Mann's resignation, while the state DGP suggests Pakistani ISI involvement.

'Is This A Slavery System In India?'

'Is This A Slavery System In India?'

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

'Workers are the people who create all the wealth in this country. How can you call them anti-national?'

Five Naxal Functionaries Surrender In Maharashtra's Gadchiroli

Five Naxal Functionaries Surrender In Maharashtra's Gadchiroli

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Five Naxal functionaries, carrying a total bounty of Rs 38 lakh, surrendered in Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra. Additionally, eight Maoists from Maharashtra, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh were arrested during joint operations with the CRPF.

AAP Government Faces Criticism Over Punjab Security Lapses

AAP Government Faces Criticism Over Punjab Security Lapses

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Opposition parties have criticised the AAP government in Punjab following twin blasts in Jalandhar and Amritsar, citing a breakdown in law and order and intelligence systems. The blasts have sparked a political blame game, with accusations flying between the AAP and BJP.

Bandi Sanjay Kumar's Son Seeks Bail In Pocso Case

Bandi Sanjay Kumar's Son Seeks Bail In Pocso Case

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar's son, Bhageerath, has petitioned the Telangana High Court for anticipatory bail in a POCSO case involving allegations of sexual harassment of a minor. He has also filed a petition to quash the criminal case. The case was registered based on a complaint by the mother of the alleged victim.

Increasing strength of Parliament to 850 a 'joke': Tharoor

Increasing strength of Parliament to 850 a 'joke': Tharoor

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor criticised the proposal to increase the Lok Sabha's strength to 850, while BJP leaders defended delimitation as a democratic necessity at the Stanford India Conference 2026.

Mamata Banerjee Attacks Modi Over Yamuna Pollution Claims

Mamata Banerjee Attacks Modi Over Yamuna Pollution Claims

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he could enjoy a boat ride on the Hooghly in West Bengal due to its clean waters, unlike the polluted Yamuna in Delhi. She also defended women's safety in Bengal and criticised the BJP's governance in other states.

'90% trials culminate in acquittals': SC questions UAPA conviction rates

'90% trials culminate in acquittals': SC questions UAPA conviction rates

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The Supreme Court has raised concerns about the low conviction rates under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), noting that over 90 per cent of trials result in acquittals. The observations were made while granting bail to an accused in a narco-terrorism case.

Assam Gibbon Makes Historic Railway Crossing

Assam Gibbon Makes Historic Railway Crossing

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Endangered hoolock gibbon uses bridge over railway line in Jorhat sanctuary.

Can Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka posting mend frayed India-Bangladesh ties?

Can Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka posting mend frayed India-Bangladesh ties?

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Former Union minister Dinesh Trivedi has been appointed as India's next High Commissioner to Bangladesh, signalling efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

Rs 3000 cr cap on nuclear liability: Very sensitive legislative policy issue, says SC

Rs 3000 cr cap on nuclear liability: Very sensitive legislative policy issue, says SC

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Supreme Court is reviewing a plea challenging the 2025 SHANTI Act, which caps liability at Rs 3,000 crore for nuclear plant incidents, raising concerns about victim compensation and operator accountability.

Kerala Government: Full Cabinet Expected To Be Sworn In On Monday

Kerala Government: Full Cabinet Expected To Be Sworn In On Monday

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The entire Cabinet of the new Kerala government is expected to be sworn in on Monday, with the list of ministers likely to be finalised soon, according to UDF convenor Adoor Prakash. Leaders of UDF allies held a meeting to discuss the preparations for the swearing-in ceremony.

TVS Venu Group to bolster financial services presence with Jana SFB stake

TVS Venu Group to bolster financial services presence with Jana SFB stake

Rediff.com19 May 2026

TVS Venu Group has agreed to acquire a minority stake of up to 9.9 per cent in Jana Small Finance Bank, including a 4.9 per cent ownership by TVS Motor Company, through a combination of primary issuance of warrants and a secondary purchase.