News for 'assembly elections'

Jhon Arokiasamy Scripts TVK's Stunning Rise

Jhon Arokiasamy Scripts TVK's Stunning Rise

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Building a party from scratch and leading it to electoral success is an entirely different challenge.

Rebel MPs to meet Speaker to get recognition as 'real TMC'

Rebel MPs to meet Speaker to get recognition as 'real TMC'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A group of dissident Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs, led by Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia, plans to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to seek recognition as the 'real TMC' parliamentary group, claiming the support of 19 members amidst an escalating internal party crisis.

EC makes elaborate security measures for second phase of Bengal polls

EC makes elaborate security measures for second phase of Bengal polls

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

The Election Commission has announced a stringent security plan for the second phase of the West Bengal assembly polls, ensuring voters can exercise their franchise without fear. Security personnel will be deployed constituency-wise, and area domination exercises will be stepped up in sensitive neighbourhoods. CCTV cameras will be installed at every polling station, and central forces will remain deployed at booths.

'Annamalai Is A Proxy For The BJP'

'Annamalai Is A Proxy For The BJP'

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

'The generational shift belongs to Vijay, Udhayanidhi and Annamalai.' 'The BJP cannot fit into the shift.' 'So they threw Annamalai into the situation where he is comparable with Vijay and Udhayanidhi.'

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.

Viswanathan Anand First Indian Interim FIDE President

Viswanathan Anand First Indian Interim FIDE President

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Former World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand has been appointed Interim President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) after incumbent Arkady Dvorkovich voluntarily stepped aside due to his inclusion in the European Union's sanctions list.

Central forces to stay for 60 more days in Bengal even if BJP wins: Shah

Central forces to stay for 60 more days in Bengal even if BJP wins: Shah

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has announced that central forces will remain deployed in West Bengal for at least seven more days after the assembly elections, assuring voters of security during and after the polls.

K'taka CM change buzz reignites as Siddaramaiah summoned to Delhi

K'taka CM change buzz reignites as Siddaramaiah summoned to Delhi

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has been called to Delhi by the Congress high command for a meeting, fuelling speculation about a potential leadership change and Cabinet reshuffle as his government completes three years in office.

Income Tax Raids Target TMC Leaders: What It Means

Income Tax Raids Target TMC Leaders: What It Means

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Income Tax Department conducted searches at multiple locations in Kolkata, including the residence of TMC MLA Debashis Kumar and Miraj Shah, a proposer of Mamata Banerjee's candidature. The TMC alleges the raids are politically motivated.

BJP Alleges TMC Inciting Violence By Disguising Workers As BJP Supporters

BJP Alleges TMC Inciting Violence By Disguising Workers As BJP Supporters

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The BJP has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal of inciting post-poll violence by disguising its workers as BJP supporters. The BJP asserts its cadres have never engaged in violence after election victories and claims the TMC is acting out of frustration after suffering a crushing defeat in the assembly polls.

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.

Journalist questioned, phone seized in Rs 35 crore TVK MLA bribery case

Journalist questioned, phone seized in Rs 35 crore TVK MLA bribery case

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A journalist from a Tamil news channel was questioned by Chennai police and his mobile phone seized in connection with an alleged bribery case involving a ruling TVK MLA. The MLA claimed he was offered Rs 35 crore to vote against his party in a no-confidence motion, part of a larger "Meghalaya Project" to destabilise the government. The Chennai Press Club has condemned the police action, citing concerns over press freedom.

Samajwadi Party next? 2 UP ministers claim several leaders ready to defect

Samajwadi Party next? 2 UP ministers claim several leaders ready to defect

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar has sensationally claimed a major split is imminent within the Samajwadi Party, with many leaders reportedly ready to defect to the BJP, a claim vehemently denied by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav.

TMC Alleges BJP Conspiracy Before West Bengal Elections

TMC Alleges BJP Conspiracy Before West Bengal Elections

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The TMC has intensified its attack on the BJP, alleging a 'larger conspiracy' involving central agencies ahead of the second phase of West Bengal polls on April 29, while also questioning the credibility of the Election Commission.

Vijay's TVK falls short of majority: What might unfold next?

Vijay's TVK falls short of majority: What might unfold next?

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The TVK has ended the nearly six-decade dominance of DMK and AIADMK in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, securing 108 out of 234 constituencies in its debut, but falls short of the 118 seats needed for an absolute majority, prompting discussions on coalition options and the governor's role.

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Congress party has strongly condemned the 'purification' of a rally venue in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, after a public meeting addressed by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, alleging it reflects an 'anti-Dalit' mindset of the BJP and RSS.

West Bengal Election Watch: Criminal Cases Against Sitting MLAs

West Bengal Election Watch: Criminal Cases Against Sitting MLAs

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals that a significant percentage of sitting MLAs in West Bengal, where assembly polls are scheduled, have declared criminal cases against themselves.

Kerala Elections 2026: Can An 80-Year-Old Marxist Score A Hat-Trick?

Kerala Elections 2026: Can An 80-Year-Old Marxist Score A Hat-Trick?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Kerala's 2026 assembly election will see a three-cornered contest where religion and communalism have emerged as central themes for the first time, challenging the state's long-celebrated secular fabric.

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's political career faced an unexpected jolt as he resigned as Education Minister following nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, marking a significant departure from the government's initial dismissive response to the agitation.

No print ads by political parties on April 8-9 without clearance: EC

No print ads by political parties on April 8-9 without clearance: EC

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Election Commission of India has issued directives to political parties and candidates in Kerala, restricting the publication of print advertisements on the eve and day of the Assembly elections without prior certification.

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Special police observer Ajay Pal Sharma toured West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district during the second phase of Assembly elections, facing political controversy and allegations of intimidation from TMC leaders.

Today's Chanakya exit poll: BJP to win Bengal, DMK to retain TN, mega debut for Vijay

Today's Chanakya exit poll: BJP to win Bengal, DMK to retain TN, mega debut for Vijay

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Exit polls suggest significant shifts in Indian state assembly elections, forecasting BJP gains in West Bengal and Assam, a DMK comeback in Tamil Nadu, and a tight race in Kerala.

Samrat Choudhary's govt wins trust vote in Bihar assembly

Samrat Choudhary's govt wins trust vote in Bihar assembly

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The BJP-led government in Bihar secured a vote of confidence in the state assembly, with Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary pledging economic development and significant investments. The motion was passed amidst heated debates and accusations between the ruling NDA and the opposition, highlighting political tensions and differing views on issues like women's reservation.

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused central forces of attempting to search her car while en route to Kolkata airport, alleging misuse of central machinery by the BJP ahead of state elections.

DMK's jibe at allies joining TVK govt causes uproar

DMK's jibe at allies joining TVK govt causes uproar

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The DMK criticised its former allies, VCK and IUML, for joining the TVK government, leading to a heated exchange and prompting DMK chief M K Stalin to call for restraint.

Women voters shift away from TMC despite welfare push

Women voters shift away from TMC despite welfare push

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Women voters in West Bengal appear to be shifting their priorities beyond financial assistance, placing greater emphasis on governance and accountability, according to post-election analysis. This shift may have contributed to the Trinamool Congress's (TMC) losses in the recent assembly election, as the BJP's promises and other factors influenced voter sentiment.

Annamalai meets Amit Shah amid party exit rumours

Annamalai meets Amit Shah amid party exit rumours

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu BJP leader K Annamalai met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah amid speculation about his departure from the party and potential launch of a new political outfit.

Suvendu Adhikari's PA Murdered: What We Know

Suvendu Adhikari's PA Murdered: What We Know

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari's personal assistant, Chandranath Rath, was shot dead in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. The incident has heightened political tensions in the state.

NDA poised to grab majority seats in Assam's Bodoland

NDA poised to grab majority seats in Assam's Bodoland

Rediff.com4 May 2026

NDA partner Bodoland People's Front (BPF) is expected to secure a majority of the 15 Assembly seats in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) of Assam, leading in 10 constituencies, according to Election Commission data. The BJP, a major partner in the ruling NDA, leads in three seats, while the UPPL and Congress are ahead in one seat each.

Mala SHO Found Hanging In Official Quarters

Mala SHO Found Hanging In Official Quarters

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

A 45-year-old Station House Officer (SHO) of Mala police station, Rajesh R, was found hanging in his official quarters in Thrissur, Kerala. An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding his death, with police examining for a suicide note and recording statements from colleagues and family.

Kerala Elections: 'UDF Has An Edge Over LDF'

Kerala Elections: 'UDF Has An Edge Over LDF'

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

'It is going to be a negative vote against the government rather than a positive vote for the UDF.'

Bengal govt revokes BJP MP's award for remarks on Netaji

Bengal govt revokes BJP MP's award for remarks on Netaji

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The West Bengal government has revoked the Banga Bibhushan award from Rajya Sabha MP Ananta Maharaj following his controversial remarks describing Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as a 'war criminal' and questioning the Azad Hind Fauj's role in India's freedom struggle.

All 25 Bihar ministers except one win election

All 25 Bihar ministers except one win election

Rediff.com15 Nov 2025

In the recent Bihar elections, a majority of state ministers from the ruling NDA secured victories in their respective constituencies, with only one minister losing their seat.

Arms Cache Seized In Kolkata Before West Bengal Elections

Arms Cache Seized In Kolkata Before West Bengal Elections

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Kolkata Police's Special Task Force seized a cache of arms and ammunition near Rajabazar Science College and detained a man days before the two-phase polling in West Bengal.

El Nino Revives India's Water Disputes

El Nino Revives India's Water Disputes

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Change of guard in some states and evolving El Nino dynamics are triggering fresh actions on raging water-sharing disputes in several states.

Govt may give fresh push to delimitation with Oppn in disarray

Govt may give fresh push to delimitation with Oppn in disarray

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

As more opposition MPs are now aligning with the ruling NDA, sources in the government indicated that possibilities are being explored to give a fresh push to the delimitation legislation in Parliament.

DMK to boycott INDIA meet, to sit separately in Lok Sabha

DMK to boycott INDIA meet, to sit separately in Lok Sabha

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is reportedly set to skip the upcoming INDIA bloc meeting in New Delhi, signalling a growing rift with the Congress party. This development follows a political realignment in Tamil Nadu where Congress allied with the TVK, leading to the end of its long-standing cooperation with the DMK and a request for separate seating in the Lok Sabha.

Delhi assembly: Fewer women, more graduates elected

Delhi assembly: Fewer women, more graduates elected

Rediff.com9 Feb 2025

The eighth Delhi assembly will have fewer women members but a higher number of lawmakers with graduate degrees, according to a report.

No Minority Consolidation Against LDF, Says Kerala Minister

No Minority Consolidation Against LDF, Says Kerala Minister

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Kerala Industries Minister P Rajeev dismisses claims of minority consolidation against the ruling LDF in the Assembly polls, stating minorities have no grievances and trust the Left's stance against the Centre.

Satheesan-led Kerala govt sworn in, announces key welfare measures

Satheesan-led Kerala govt sworn in, announces key welfare measures

Rediff.com18 May 2026

V D Satheesan was sworn in as Kerala's Chief Minister, with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administering the oath of office. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by prominent political figures, including Congress leaders and Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states.