News for 'United States Congress'

'Unlawful': US court strikes down Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee

'Unlawful': US court strikes down Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A US federal judge has ruled that the USD 100,000 fee imposed by former President Donald Trump for H-1B visa applications was unlawful, as it lacked congressional approval. The ruling states the fee was a tax, exceeding the administration's authority and impacting skilled global talent.

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

There are strong possibilities of some Union ministers being sent to take organisational roles in the BJP and party office-bearers being inducted into the Modi ministry.

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.

'A Big Battle Is Going On Within The Congress In Kerala'

'A Big Battle Is Going On Within The Congress In Kerala'

Rediff.com6 May 2026

'They will have to adjust themselves to the new reality. Because if they don't understand this changed political perception, their future will be difficult.'

23 parties to attend INDIA meet; DMK, AAP to stay away

23 parties to attend INDIA meet; DMK, AAP to stay away

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said there are some parties that have expressed their inability to attend this particular meeting for their own reasons.

IUML Says Congress Will Behave After Kerala Poll Results

IUML Says Congress Will Behave After Kerala Poll Results

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The IUML, a key ally of the Congress-led UDF in Kerala, anticipates a more unified Congress party after the assembly election results are announced, expressing disapproval of internal disputes over the chief ministerial candidate.

Assam: Congress Jolted As Candidate Quits Before Polls

Assam: Congress Jolted As Candidate Quits Before Polls

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

'I repeatedly contacted the party leadership, but they didn't take my calls. The District Congress Committee offered no assistance.' 'I waited for a long time, and when no response came, I decided to quit the party.'

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The NCERT has included in the class 9 social science textbook a section on Emergency, which it described as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailing the move saying future generations should know about the "dark deeds".

13 killed in blast at fireworks unit ahead of Thrissur Pooram

13 killed in blast at fireworks unit ahead of Thrissur Pooram

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

A devastating explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Thrissur, Kerala, has resulted in at least 13 fatalities and numerous injuries. The incident occurred as the unit was preparing crackers for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram festival.

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.

Congress pulls out of Baramati bypoll in favour of Sunetra Pawar

Congress pulls out of Baramati bypoll in favour of Sunetra Pawar

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The Congress party has announced it will not contest the bypoll to the Baramati assembly seat out of respect for Ajit Pawar, whose death necessitated the election.

Is Modi Planning To Shuffle Ministers?

Is Modi Planning To Shuffle Ministers?

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Recent BJP organisational moves and Rajya Sabha nominations have sparked speculation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may soon undertake a ministerial reshuffle.

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Omar Abdullah has so far laboured hard to make best of a bad bargain. Even so, the ground reality is anything but reassuring. The Opposition parties, including notably the PDP, appear to be gaining ground, though more by default. Public patience with Omar's government has nearly run out, notes Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

Bill to pause H-1B visas for 3 years introduced in US Congress

Bill to pause H-1B visas for 3 years introduced in US Congress

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

A group of Republican lawmakers in the US Congress has introduced a bill proposing a three-year pause to the H1-B visa programme, citing concerns that it is being used to replace American workers with cheaper foreign labour.

Uddhav gets emotional, offers to quit as party chief amid MPs' revolt

Uddhav gets emotional, offers to quit as party chief amid MPs' revolt

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Facing revolt by 6 Lok Sabha MPs of his party, Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said he was ready to quit his post if the party didn't have faith in him, while his opponent and Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde hinted at more defections from the rival camp.

My brother BJP spokesperson, discloses judge in Mamata poll plea

My brother BJP spokesperson, discloses judge in Mamata poll plea

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

A Calcutta High Court judge, Gaurang Kant, disclosed that his elder brother is a national spokesperson for the BJP while hearing Mamata Banerjee's petition challenging the Bhabanipur assembly seat poll result. Despite the disclosure, Banerjee's lawyer expressed full confidence in the judge.

'BJP Pressured EC To Oust Natarajan From RS Contest'

'BJP Pressured EC To Oust Natarajan From RS Contest'

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

'We can never trust the BJP when it comes to elections.'

BJP on brink of losing its only Kerala civic body amid UDF no-trust move

BJP on brink of losing its only Kerala civic body amid UDF no-trust move

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The Congress-led UDF is set to move a no-confidence motion against the BJP-led administration in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. This move comes as the BJP faces a fragile majority, exacerbated by a councillor's arrest and the invalidation of oaths for 20 councillors. The UDF cites administrative paralysis and mismanagement, while the LDF's stance on supporting the motion remains a key factor.

US op in Nigeria eliminates ISIS second-in-command: Trump

US op in Nigeria eliminates ISIS second-in-command: Trump

Rediff.com16 May 2026

US President Donald Trump announced the elimination of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a key ISIS leader, in a joint operation with Nigerian forces.

BJP revamp buzz grows as reshuffle speculation swirls

BJP revamp buzz grows as reshuffle speculation swirls

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The BJP team under the new national president Nitin Nabin, who took charge in January, is expected to be announced within this month, with sources suggesting that some holding positions in the government may move to the party.

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.

Will China Now Attack Taiwan?

Will China Now Attack Taiwan?

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Chinese leaders, including its generals, will have to weigh whether they can win a war if they ever attack Taiwan and if at all, can they sustain the subsequent devastation, notes Rup Narayan Das.

In historic revolt, TMC rebels oust Mamata as chairperson, install Arup Roy

In historic revolt, TMC rebels oust Mamata as chairperson, install Arup Roy

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

In a bid to wrest control of the Trinamool Congress, its rebel faction led by Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee on Monday elected MLA Arup Roy as chairperson, marking the sharpest challenge yet to the authority of party founder Mamata Banerjee.

Amarinder Singh's Daughter Meets New Punjab BJP Chief

Amarinder Singh's Daughter Meets New Punjab BJP Chief

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Jai Inder Kaur, BJP leader and daughter of former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh, met newly appointed state BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon to congratulate him on his appointment. The meeting is significant given Amarinder Singh's earlier concerns about Dhillon's appointment.

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The internecine war within the Trinamool Congress took a new turn on Thursday with "party treasurer" Aroop Biswas writing to a bank seeking restrictions on the operation of the party's accounts, citing uncertainty over its legitimate leadership amid rebellions by MLAs and MPs.

'Even China...': BJP slams Congress for blindly backing Iran

'Even China...': BJP slams Congress for blindly backing Iran

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

The BJP has criticised the Congress party for allegedly prioritising its vote bank and outdated ideologies over India's national interest and citizen safety in its foreign policy approach towards Iran.

TMC dissidents attend CM Suvendu Adhikari's meeting amid huge party split

TMC dissidents attend CM Suvendu Adhikari's meeting amid huge party split

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Amid a significant split within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), two "dissident" MPs, June Maliah and Deepak Adhikari (Dev), along with an MLA, attended an administrative meeting chaired by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. This event follows a major rebellion within the TMC, where 20 Lok Sabha MPs reportedly declared support for the BJP-led NDA as a separate bloc.

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

Rediff.com16 May 2026

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom will meet Iranian FA officials in Istanbul to offer reassurance over Iran's participation in the World Cup, amidst concerns raised by recent geopolitical tensions and visa issues.

Thousands Rally For Iran's World Cup Team Amid Visa Concerns

Thousands Rally For Iran's World Cup Team Amid Visa Concerns

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Iran hosted a large send-off rally for its World Cup team in Tehran, despite ongoing concerns about visa issues for entry into the United States, where the team is scheduled to play its group matches.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

Maha minister calls Operation Blue Star a 'black day', sparks row

Maha minister calls Operation Blue Star a 'black day', sparks row

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan has ignited a political controversy by labelling Operation Blue Star a 'black day' and referring to those killed as 'martyrs', while criticising former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and likening the military action to an invasion.

'INDIA Alliance Is Dead'

'INDIA Alliance Is Dead'

Rediff.com28 May 2026

'Congress needs a positive agenda rather than primarily picking up on two business houses.'

Kerala Minister Sunny Joseph Defends Brother-in-Law's Appointment

Kerala Minister Sunny Joseph Defends Brother-in-Law's Appointment

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Kerala Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph has defended the appointment of his brother-in-law, Benny Thomas, as his Additional Private Secretary, citing Thomas's public service record and political experience. The appointment has sparked controversy, with the opposition CPI(M) accusing the minister of nepotism and hypocrisy, demanding his resignation.

'Will kill you if...': Sena MP Patil threatens scribes; Shinde seeks apology

'Will kill you if...': Sena MP Patil threatens scribes; Shinde seeks apology

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Dina Patil allegedly abused and threatened journalists, prompting Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to ask him to express regret. The incident occurred after journalists questioned Patil about a letter from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut and his daughter's political stance, leading to a political controversy.

Harsh Malhotra's appointment as Delhi BJP chief signals Cabinet reshuffle

Harsh Malhotra's appointment as Delhi BJP chief signals Cabinet reshuffle

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed Harsh Malhotra as the president of its Delhi unit, sparking speculation about an imminent reshuffle of the Union Council of Ministers. This move follows the BJP's 'one person, one post' principle and comes as the party prepares for upcoming elections and a review of ministerial performance.

Shiv Sena at 60: Uddhav group fights for existence, Shinde's for relevance

Shiv Sena at 60: Uddhav group fights for existence, Shinde's for relevance

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

As the Shiv Sena marks 60 years, political experts highlight the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction's existential crisis and the Eknath Shinde-led group's struggle for relevance in the face of a dominant BJP, a significant shift from the party's historical 'elder brother' status in Maharashtra.

NEET leak: Doctors' body denied presentation before Parl panel

NEET leak: Doctors' body denied presentation before Parl panel

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Amidst ongoing controversy surrounding the NEET and CUET UG 2026 exams, the National Testing Agency (NTA) faced tough questions from a parliamentary standing committee regarding safeguards against paper leaks and hacking vulnerabilities.

TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh quits party posts after Adhikari meet

TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh quits party posts after Adhikari meet

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Lok Sabha MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has resigned from all organisational posts of the Trinamool Congress, following public expressions of disappointment with the party leadership and attending a meeting against party instructions.

Now, row erupts in Kerala as chief poll officer appointed as CM's secretary

Now, row erupts in Kerala as chief poll officer appointed as CM's secretary

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The appointment of Kerala's Chief Electoral Officer as the Chief Minister's secretary has ignited a political firestorm, raising questions about election credibility and sparking accusations of hypocrisy among political parties.

'Samajwadi Party Isn't Breaking Up Like TMC Or Shiv Sena (UBT)'

'Samajwadi Party Isn't Breaking Up Like TMC Or Shiv Sena (UBT)'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Political tensions are escalating in Uttar Pradesh as Samajwadi Party leaders strongly refute Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party chief Om Prakash Rajbhar's assertions of an impending split within the SP.