News for 'chief minister contenders'

Kerala CM Vijayan Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Congress of Aiding BJP

Kerala CM Vijayan Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Congress of Aiding BJP

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has accused the Congress party and its leader Rahul Gandhi of acting as the 'B-team' of the BJP, criticising their stance on various issues and alleging a tacit alliance between the two parties.

RS polls: Sharad Pawar to get fresh term; BJP fields 4 nominees in Maha

RS polls: Sharad Pawar to get fresh term; BJP fields 4 nominees in Maha

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The Congress party has announced its support for Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar as the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Maharashtra.

'Shivakumar will become Karnataka CM on January 6'

'Shivakumar will become Karnataka CM on January 6'

Rediff.com13 Dec 2025

A Congress MLA has predicted that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar will become Chief Minister on January 6, sparking political speculation in Karnataka. Meanwhile, a BJP MP expressed support for Home Minister G Parameshwara for the CM post.

Leander Paes joins BJP ahead of Bengal polls

Leander Paes joins BJP ahead of Bengal polls

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Paes had joined the Trinamool Congress in 2021 and campaigned for the party during the Goa elections in 2022.

Sidda, Shivakumar land in Delhi amid cabinet reshuffle buzz

Sidda, Shivakumar land in Delhi amid cabinet reshuffle buzz

Rediff.com15 Nov 2025

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D K Shivakumar visit New Delhi amid speculation about a cabinet reshuffle, meeting with Rahul Gandhi and fueling political buzz.

Rahul Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Collusion, Highlights Corruption and Drug Issues in Kerala

Rahul Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Collusion, Highlights Corruption and Drug Issues in Kerala

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Rahul Gandhi intensified the Congress campaign in Kerala, alleging collusion between the LDF and BJP, citing corruption cases and the drug issue in the state. He also criticised the LDF government's handling of the Sabarimala gold loss and unemployment.

SIR process only for deletion, not inclusion, Mamata tells SC

SIR process only for deletion, not inclusion, Mamata tells SC

Rediff.com4 Feb 2026

Banerjee is personally present in court room one along with her lawyers. A gate pass was issued in the chief minister's name on Tuesday.

60 Years On This Week, Indira Gandhi Became Prime Minister

60 Years On This Week, Indira Gandhi Became Prime Minister

Rediff.com20 Jan 2026

In a culture where children take up the profession of their father, her becoming a politician was seen as natural and acceptable.

SC to hear ED plea against Bengal govt in coal scam probe

SC to hear ED plea against Bengal govt in coal scam probe

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a plea by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleging interference and obstruction by the West Bengal government, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in its probe into an alleged coal-pilferage scam. The ED claims Banerjee removed key evidence during raids on I-PAC offices and the premises of its director, Pratik Jain.

Saumya Chaurasia Gets Bail in Liquor Scam Cases

Saumya Chaurasia Gets Bail in Liquor Scam Cases

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

The Chhattisgarh High Court has granted bail to Saumya Chaurasia, a former deputy secretary in the CMO, in two cases related to the alleged liquor scam that occurred during the previous Congress government.

Amid CM change buzz, Karnataka HM 'hopes for promotion'

Amid CM change buzz, Karnataka HM 'hopes for promotion'

Rediff.com1 Jan 2026

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Thursday hinted about his chief ministerial aspirations, asserting he too has ambitions like everyone and expects a 'political promotion' this year if the Congress high command decides so.

Iran Plays Hardball With India's Hormuz Requests

Iran Plays Hardball With India's Hormuz Requests

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

'I suspect that Bangladesh being given permission stuck in India's official craw, and this story was an attempt to balance the scales by giving the impression that a similar waiver had been given to India as well.'

BLO's death triggers political storm in Bengal; TMC, BJP trade charges

BLO's death triggers political storm in Bengal; TMC, BJP trade charges

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

The death of a booth level officer in West Bengal due to cardiac arrest has ignited a political battle between the ruling TMC and the BJP, with accusations of workload pressure and politicization of the tragedy.

'Changing CM Siddaramaiah not easy, will complete 5-year term'

'Changing CM Siddaramaiah not easy, will complete 5-year term'

Rediff.com25 Nov 2025

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's advisor asserts he will complete his term amid power tussle within the Congress party.

What Is DMK's Plan To Counter Vijay?

What Is DMK's Plan To Counter Vijay?

Rediff.com18 Dec 2025

The DMK may consider a two-tier campaign, where they keep the focus on Chief Minister Stalin, as a senior statesman with 50-plus years of political experience, and let EPS and the BJP shout in the wilderness. In such a case, the second-tier may project Udhayanidhi as the contender and chosen obstructionist in Vijay's path. The attempt, if any, would be to reduce Vijay to Udhayanidhi's level when the former is aiming at Stalin and Stalin alone in the state's political horizon, predicts N Sathiya Moorthy.

Why Lok Sabha was adjourned on Wednesday just before Modi's speech

Why Lok Sabha was adjourned on Wednesday just before Modi's speech

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

The prime minister is now expected to speak on Thursday in the Rajya Sabha, where the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's Address has taken place without any disruption.

Cash row: SC junks Justice Varma's plea against parliamentary probe

Cash row: SC junks Justice Varma's plea against parliamentary probe

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

The remarks were made by the bench which refused to agree with the submission made on behalf of Justice Varma that the deputy chairman of Rajya Sabha had no power to reject a motion and, under the Judges (Inquiry) Act of 1968, only the Speaker and the chairman have the power to accept or reject a motion against a judge.

SC calls ED obstruction claim against Mamata serious; stays FIR

SC calls ED obstruction claim against Mamata serious; stays FIR

Rediff.com15 Jan 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over the Enforcement Directorate's allegations of obstruction by the West Bengal government and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during raids related to a coal-pilferage scam. The court intends to examine the matter and has also taken note of the commotion at the Calcutta High Court during hearings related to the case.

'Security alert' issued for Americans in Bangladesh

'Security alert' issued for Americans in Bangladesh

Rediff.com30 Jan 2026

The United States on Friday issued a 'security alert' for its citizens in Bangladesh, asking them to remain vigilant and avoid crowds as political violence or extremist attacks may occur, potentially targeting rallies, polling stations, and religious sites during the election period.

Why Has ISI Chief Been Given An Extension?

Why Has ISI Chief Been Given An Extension?

Rediff.com7 Oct 2025

While Asim Malik's role in Pakistan's recent warming up of relations with the US is acknowledged, army watchers note a recent distancing, what with Asim Munir not wanting his DG, ISI to share the limelight during his subsequent sojourns to Tampa and Brussels, points out Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at RA&W.

HC refuses to quash POCSO case against ex-CM Yediyurappa

HC refuses to quash POCSO case against ex-CM Yediyurappa

Rediff.com13 Nov 2025

The Karnataka High Court has refused to quash the POCSO Act case filed against former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, upholding the trial court's order to proceed with the case.

Middle East Crisis: The New Fog of War

Middle East Crisis: The New Fog of War

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

When everyone has footage and no one can verify it, the loudest voice wins, notes Prem Panicker who begins a daily blog on the War in the Middle East.

Is Yathindra backing Satish Jarkiholi to succeed Siddaramaiah?

Is Yathindra backing Satish Jarkiholi to succeed Siddaramaiah?

Rediff.com23 Oct 2025

Statement by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's son about his father's political future and potential successors sparks speculation about leadership change within the ruling Congress party.

You Can Become Chief Minister Only if You Have The MLAs

You Can Become Chief Minister Only if You Have The MLAs

Rediff.com11 May 2023

The two main factions in Karnataka's Congress party -- one led by Siddaramaiah and the other by D K Shivakumar -- are both contenders for the chief ministership. Both groups have fought hard to get their choice of MLAs the party ticket, notes Aditi Phadnis.

Sidda-Shivakumar call truce, but tensions simmer beneath

Sidda-Shivakumar call truce, but tensions simmer beneath

Rediff.com30 Nov 2025

Opposition parties and political analysts in Karnataka believe the 'truce' between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar is temporary, a lull before the storm and a 'strategic adjustment'.

SC seeks EC response on TMC MPs' plea over Bengal electoral rolls

SC seeks EC response on TMC MPs' plea over Bengal electoral rolls

Rediff.com12 Jan 2026

The Supreme Court has sought a response from the Election Commission on a plea by Trinamool Congress MPs alleging irregularities in the revision of electoral rolls in West Bengal.

Buzz grows over BJP's CM pick in Delhi; Pravesh Verma key contender

Buzz grows over BJP's CM pick in Delhi; Pravesh Verma key contender

Rediff.com8 Feb 2025

The BJP's victory in the Delhi Assembly elections has sparked speculation over who will lead the next government. Several prominent leaders, including Pravesh Verma, Ashish Sood, Pawan Sharma, Vijender Gupta, and Satish Upadhyay, are in the running for the chief minister's post. The party's national leadership is expected to make the final decision, leaving the contenders in a state of anticipation.

'Bihar Doesn't Predict Outcomes In Bengal, UP'

'Bihar Doesn't Predict Outcomes In Bengal, UP'

Rediff.com25 Nov 2025

'The question for the TMC is not whether it can hold its bastions, but whether it can expand effectively into regions where the BJP already possesses a good ecosystem.'

Bangladesh uprising 'guru' rejects alliance with Jamaat

Bangladesh uprising 'guru' rejects alliance with Jamaat

Rediff.com29 Dec 2025

A key leader of Bangladesh's National Citizen Party (NCP), Mahfuz Alam, has distanced himself from the party's alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, citing ideological differences and concerns over Jamaat's controversial history.

2 more BLOs die, outrage over 'work load' intensifies

2 more BLOs die, outrage over 'work load' intensifies

Rediff.com28 Nov 2025

This is the fourth such death reported in the state since the exercise began on November 4, sparking a political blame game.

Tarique Rahman ends 17-yr exile, lands in Dhaka amid rousing welcome

Tarique Rahman ends 17-yr exile, lands in Dhaka amid rousing welcome

Rediff.com25 Dec 2025

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman has returned to Dhaka after 17 years in self-exile in the UK, amid political instability following the killing of a youth leader. His return is significant as BNP emerges as a forerunner in the changed political landscape.

ED gets 'last chance' to argue against Kejriwal's bail

ED gets 'last chance' to argue against Kejriwal's bail

Rediff.com14 Oct 2025

The Delhi High Court has granted the Enforcement Directorate a final opportunity to argue against the bail granted to Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy-linked money laundering case, following objections from Kejriwal's counsel regarding repeated adjournments.

Lok Sabha to discuss Vande Mataram, electoral reforms next week

Lok Sabha to discuss Vande Mataram, electoral reforms next week

Rediff.com2 Dec 2025

The Lok Sabha will debate the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' and electoral reforms after an all-party agreement, potentially breaking the logjam over discussions on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

VOTE: Who will be Maharashtra's next chief minister?

VOTE: Who will be Maharashtra's next chief minister?

Rediff.com19 Oct 2014

Following are the possible contenders for the post of Maharashtra chief minister. We request our readers to take the poll at the end of this list.

Bihar polls: Congress faces backlash as ticket distribution sparks protests

Bihar polls: Congress faces backlash as ticket distribution sparks protests

Rediff.com16 Oct 2025

Several Congress leaders, including the state president, received tickets for the Bihar assembly polls amidst internal disputes and efforts to reconcile with allies. The distribution process was marred by protests and accusations of corruption.

Abolish or reduce tax on air purifiers in Delhi, HC tells GST Council

Abolish or reduce tax on air purifiers in Delhi, HC tells GST Council

Rediff.com24 Dec 2025

The Delhi High Court has directed the GST Council to consider lowering or abolishing the goods and services tax on air purifiers, citing worsening air quality in the national capital. The court has asked the council to meet at the earliest, even via video conference if necessary, to address the issue.

Why haven't you hanged Rajoana yet, SC asks govt

Why haven't you hanged Rajoana yet, SC asks govt

Rediff.com24 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court has questioned the delay in the hanging of Balwant Singh Rajoana, convicted in the 1995 assassination of former Punjab CM Beant Singh, despite the Centre calling it a 'serious offence'.

INDIA candidates face each other in several Bihar seats

INDIA candidates face each other in several Bihar seats

Rediff.com20 Oct 2025

Filing of nomination papers ended on Monday for the second and final phase of Bihar assembly polls, with the opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) appearing fractured, as constituents would end up fighting each other in a number of seats.

Speculation mounts after Shivakumar meets Priyanka Gandhi

Speculation mounts after Shivakumar meets Priyanka Gandhi

Rediff.com9 Jul 2025

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar met senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, fueling speculation about a leadership change in the state. The meeting occurs amid reports of Shivakumar pressing for the chief minister's post.

BS Yeddyurappa takes oath as Karnataka chief minister

BS Yeddyurappa takes oath as Karnataka chief minister

Rediff.com17 May 2018

Yeddyurappa has 15 days to prove his majority in the assembly.