News for 'Venugopal'

Opposition using students protest as political tool: Rajnath Singh

Opposition using students protest as political tool: Rajnath Singh

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has expressed serious concern over ongoing student protests in Delhi, accusing the opposition of using them as a 'political tool' to further their interests. He urged opposition parties to raise issues in Parliament rather than on the streets, amidst demonstrations against the NEET paper leak.

Modi 'most anti-youth' PM: Rahul slams police action against CJP protesters

Modi 'most anti-youth' PM: Rahul slams police action against CJP protesters

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday dubbed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the "most anti-youth" PM in the country's history as he accused the government of not just failing the youth but also pouncing on them.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his post amidst widespread nationwide protests concerning the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, citing the larger interest of students and the need to prevent exploitation by anti-national forces. The government is also preparing to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law.

'Sidelined' Manish Tewari decries Punjab Cong snub with cryptic post

'Sidelined' Manish Tewari decries Punjab Cong snub with cryptic post

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Congress leader Manish Tewari expressed his disappointment after being overlooked in the recent Punjab Congress reshuffle for upcoming assembly polls, posting a cryptic message on X about "insecurities of individuals and institutions" while reaffirming his loyalty to the party. The reshuffle saw key appointments for election committees, including Charanjit Singh Channi as Campaign Committee chairman, but notably excluded Tewari.

LS erupts over anti-paper leak bill, NEET stir crackdown dominates debate

LS erupts over anti-paper leak bill, NEET stir crackdown dominates debate

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

After six days of stalemate, a discussion on the anti-paper leak bill began on Tuesday in Lok Sabha with the government describing it as a reaffirmation of ruling dispensation's commitment to safeguard the welfare of students but opposition hit back over the lathi-charge on protesters, saying every blow on them hurt the government's prestige more than the backs of the youth.

Agreed to NEET debate, Rahul 'backtracked': Govt amid Cong protest

Agreed to NEET debate, Rahul 'backtracked': Govt amid Cong protest

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Amidst widespread student protests and allegations of paper leaks, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's dharna outside the Prime Minister's residence has prompted the government to declare its willingness for a comprehensive parliamentary debate on the contentious NEET examination.

Rahul Gandhi turns 56, PM Modi wishes him 'good health, long life'

Rahul Gandhi turns 56, PM Modi wishes him 'good health, long life'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi received birthday wishes from across the political spectrum as he turned 56, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and various INDIA bloc leaders extending their greetings and praising his dedication to democratic values and the welfare of the marginalised.

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Congress spokesperson, quoted in media reports, summed up the party's thinking by saying, 'Whenever BJP is in trouble on the ground, a new 'apolitical' or 'alternative' party appears with the same ideology and the same backers.'

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Congress escalated its campaign against alleged examination irregularities by marching to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, transforming the issue into a direct challenge to his political authority and demanding the resignations of top government officials.

Congress to oppose all bills, including on delimitation in monsoon session

Congress to oppose all bills, including on delimitation in monsoon session

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Congress party is set to challenge the Modi government on a range of critical issues, including alleged theft of Ram temple donations, 'systemic corrosion' of the education system, and constitutional amendment bills related to delimitation and dismissal of ministers, during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament.

The Strategic Importance Of Pakistan's Gwadar Port For China

The Strategic Importance Of Pakistan's Gwadar Port For China

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Gwadar is viewed as a critical pearl in China's maritime strategy as it would give a permanent logistical footprint near an important choke point - the Strait of Hormuz and the oil rich Persian Gulf, explains Commodore Venugopal Menon (retd).

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Government sources have clarified that a passport has never been considered proof of citizenship in India, a stance consistent for the past 12 years and rooted in the Passport Act 1967. This clarification, reiterated by the Ministry of External Affairs, has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and public figures.

Kharge, Pawan Khera among Cong's Rajya Sabha picks

Kharge, Pawan Khera among Cong's Rajya Sabha picks

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Congress party has announced its seven candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Pawan Khera, Meenakshi Natarajan, Praveen Chakravarty, Neeraj Dangi, Mansoor Ali Khan, and Pranav Jha, representing various states like Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand. The elections are set for June 18.

Kerala CM's new secretary faces political backlash: Here's why

Kerala CM's new secretary faces political backlash: Here's why

Rediff.com24 May 2026

The appointment of Rathan U Kelkar as secretary to Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has sparked a political controversy, with the CPI(M) accusing the Congress of double standards regarding appointments of election officials.

Reports hint at CM change in Karnataka, Cong defers decision

Reports hint at CM change in Karnataka, Cong defers decision

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Sources said the party top brass including Gandhi and Kharge held several hours of discussions with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, apart from meeting them separately, and is likely to take a call on a possible change of guard in the state after the Rajya Sabha polls, which are due next month.

Yuvraj Singh Named Delhi Capitals' Batting Coach

Yuvraj Singh Named Delhi Capitals' Batting Coach

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh is slated to become the batting coach for Delhi Capitals for the 2027 IPL season. This marks his first coaching assignment in the league, joining a revamped support staff under Sourav Ganguly, who will serve as Director of Cricket.

BJP wins all 3 RS seats in MP after Natarajan's nomination rejected

BJP wins all 3 RS seats in MP after Natarajan's nomination rejected

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Three BJP candidates have been declared elected unopposed in the biennial Rajya Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh, while the Congress party has moved the Supreme Court against the rejection of its candidate Meenakshi Natarajan's nomination.

Congress picks Satheesan as next Kerala CM; swearing-in on May 18

Congress picks Satheesan as next Kerala CM; swearing-in on May 18

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Congress party has announced VD Satheesan as the next chief minister of Kerala, ending days of speculation. The decision was revealed at a press conference in New Delhi.

2 Cong MLAs to join Vijay cabinet, share power in TN after 59 yrs

2 Cong MLAs to join Vijay cabinet, share power in TN after 59 yrs

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Congress party will join the Tamil Nadu cabinet after a 59-year hiatus, with two of its MLAs set to be sworn in as ministers.

Siddaramaiah begins 'new innings' with Delhi meetings

Siddaramaiah begins 'new innings' with Delhi meetings

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Siddaramaiah met Rahul Gandhi to discuss his future role within the Congress party after resigning as Chief Minister of Karnataka. The meeting addressed his potential future roles and the formation of the new Karnataka government.

Kerala: CPI(M) Man Booked For Provocative Flex Board

Kerala: CPI(M) Man Booked For Provocative Flex Board

Rediff.com11 May 2026

A CPI(M) worker in Kerala has been booked for allegedly installing a flex board expressing support for Congress leader KC Venugopal in the Kerala Chief Minister race, sparking a political row.

Siddaramaiah calls cabinet breakfast amid resignation rumours

Siddaramaiah calls cabinet breakfast amid resignation rumours

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Speculation is mounting that Siddaramaiah will announce his resignation from the CM's post in a couple of days, mostly on Thursday, to clear the path for Shivakumar.

Kerala CM's New Secretary Faces Political Firestorm

Kerala CM's New Secretary Faces Political Firestorm

Rediff.com24 May 2026

The appointment of senior IAS officer Rathan U Kelkar as secretary to Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has ignited a political controversy, drawing criticism from the CPI(M), CPI, and BJP.

Kingmaker? Congress claims Vijay seeks support to form govt in TN

Kingmaker? Congress claims Vijay seeks support to form govt in TN

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Congress party is considering supporting TVK in forming a government in Tamil Nadu, following a request from TVK chief Vijay. The party leadership has directed the Tamil Nadu unit to make a final decision, keeping in mind the state's sentiments and commitment to a secular government.

Cong moves privilege notice against Modi over address to nation

Cong moves privilege notice against Modi over address to nation

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Congress MP K C Venugopal has submitted a privilege notice to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging breach of privilege during a recent address to the nation.

US-Iran Peace Deal: Analysts Eye OMCs, Aviation, Infra as Key Beneficiaries

US-Iran Peace Deal: Analysts Eye OMCs, Aviation, Infra as Key Beneficiaries

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

A potential US-Iran peace deal, expected to be signed on June 19, is anticipated to ease geopolitical stress and benefit various sectors, particularly in India, with analysts suggesting investors await finer details before making significant moves.

Cong chief Kharge, BJP leader among 4 candidates elected to RS from K'taka

Cong chief Kharge, BJP leader among 4 candidates elected to RS from K'taka

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Three Congress candidates, including All India Congress Committee president Mallikarjun Kharge, and one Bharatiya Janata Party nominee were declared elected "unanimously" to the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka on Thursday, election officials said.

Shivakumar to take oath as K'taka CM; religious heads, students to attend

Shivakumar to take oath as K'taka CM; religious heads, students to attend

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

D K Shivakumar, the Vokkaliga strongman and state Congress President, is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka today at 4:05 pm at Lok Bhavan. The ceremony will also see some ministers taking oath, though the final list is awaiting approval from the Congress high command.

Congress Continues Deliberations On Kerala Chief Minister

Congress Continues Deliberations On Kerala Chief Minister

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Congress party is still undecided on who will be Kerala's next Chief Minister, even after discussions between party leaders. Several leaders are vying for the position, and the high command is waiting for the political climate to calm down before making an announcement.

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Rediff.com13 May 2026

In a state known for high political literacy and ideological mobilisation, the Congress' inability to quickly settle on a leader after securing a massive mandate has fed a narrative that the party remains excessively dependent on Delhi, deeply faction-ridden and vulnerable to internal sabotage

Congress To Accept High Command's Decision On Kerala CM

Congress To Accept High Command's Decision On Kerala CM

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala stated that the party will accept the high command's decision regarding the chief ministerial post in Kerala. He emphasised that the delay in the decision-making process is part of a democratic procedure and urged party workers to refrain from protests.

Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier Vs Real Aircraft Carrier

Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier Vs Real Aircraft Carrier

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

While the Andaman and Nicobar islands serve as a vital, stationary asset for projecting power in the Indian Ocean, referring to them as an unsinkable aircraft carrier ignores key military and geopolitical limitations, explains Commodore Venugopal Menon (retd).

Cong keeps Kerala CM decision under wraps after key meet

Cong keeps Kerala CM decision under wraps after key meet

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan said the party high command was likely to take a final decision on Kerala's next CM within 24 hours as lobbying intensifies among the three top contenders for the chief minister's post.

Governor accepts Siddaramaiah's resignation

Governor accepts Siddaramaiah's resignation

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation, and the Governor dissolved the Council of Ministers. Siddaramaiah will continue as CM until alternative arrangements are made. D K Shivakumar is likely to succeed him, and both are in Delhi to discuss the transition with the Congress high command.

Can Shivakumar balance all interests in Karnataka cabinet formation?

Can Shivakumar balance all interests in Karnataka cabinet formation?

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The Congress party's top leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and K C Venugopal, met with Karnataka's chief minister-designate D K Shivakumar and incumbent Siddaramaiah to finalise the new cabinet, which is scheduled to be sworn in on June 3 in Bengaluru.

Shivakumar sworn in as Karnataka CM, Siddaramaiah's son joins cabinet

Shivakumar sworn in as Karnataka CM, Siddaramaiah's son joins cabinet

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

D K Shivakumar has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, with Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot administering the oath of office and secrecy. The ceremony also saw 13 other ministers, including a Deputy CM, taking their oaths, attended by prominent Congress leaders and religious figures.

Starc fitness update due soon as DC struggle without pace spearhead

Starc fitness update due soon as DC struggle without pace spearhead

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Delhi Capitals await clarity on Mitchell Starc's return, with Venugopal Rao saying an update will come in a week after their loss to CSK.

Rahul-Sonia to take call on Kerala CM, decision by Sunday

Rahul-Sonia to take call on Kerala CM, decision by Sunday

Rediff.com7 May 2026

As the CLP meeting passed a resolution authorising the party's high command to decide the next CM, observers will file a report to the Congress national leadership, who will take the final call.

Siddaramaiah to propose Shivakumar's name for CM at CLP meet today

Siddaramaiah to propose Shivakumar's name for CM at CLP meet today

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The Congress Legislature Party is scheduled to meet to elect its new leader, who will succeed Siddaramaiah as the next Chief Minister of Karnataka. D K Shivakumar is widely expected to be elected as the new leader of the CLP.

Siddaramaiah announces resignation at breakfast meet with ministers

Siddaramaiah announces resignation at breakfast meet with ministers

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has informed his cabinet colleagues of his decision to step down, according to official sources. The move comes after the Congress high command reportedly asked him to make way for a leadership change in the state, potentially offering him a central role in the party.