News for 'church leaders'

Chennithala Accuses BJP of Trying to Intimidate Kerala Church Leaders

Chennithala Accuses BJP of Trying to Intimidate Kerala Church Leaders

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has accused the BJP of attempting to intimidate bishops and church leaders in Kerala to gain their support, asserting that such tactics will not succeed in the state.

Three church leaders killed in suspected militant attack in Manipur

Three church leaders killed in suspected militant attack in Manipur

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Three people were killed and four others injured in an attack by suspected militants in Manipur's Kangpokpi district. The victims were members of the Thadou Baptist Association returning from a religious gathering. The Chief Minister has condemned the violence and assured support for the injured.

Man killed, wife hurt in fresh militant attack in Manipur's Noney

Man killed, wife hurt in fresh militant attack in Manipur's Noney

Rediff.com14 May 2026

One person was killed and his wife injured in a fresh attack in Manipur's Noney district on Wednesday evening, when suspected militants fired on their vehicle, officials said.

Sri Lankan Opposition Leaders Protest Over Detained Ex-Intelligence Chief's Treatment

Sri Lankan Opposition Leaders Protest Over Detained Ex-Intelligence Chief's Treatment

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Sri Lankan opposition leaders are protesting the detention and alleged mistreatment of former state intelligence chief Suresh Sallay, who was hospitalised after a hunger strike. Sallay was arrested in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings investigation, and his wife has raised concerns about his treatment and restricted access.

Church leaders question NCM claim

Church leaders question NCM claim

Rediff.com20 Feb 2005

NCM Chairman S Tarlochan Singh had made the statement while discussing census data pertaining to the Christian community at a recently held seminar in Kochi in Kerala.

Manipur Protests Disrupt Highway Over Hostage Allegations

Manipur Protests Disrupt Highway Over Hostage Allegations

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Security forces used tear gas to disperse protestors blocking National Highway 202 in Manipur's Ukhrul district. The protest was triggered by allegations that Naga groups were holding 14 community members hostage. The disruption affected the movement of essential supplies and security forces.

31 of 38 Naga, Kuki hostages released in Manipur

31 of 38 Naga, Kuki hostages released in Manipur

Rediff.com15 May 2026

These people were taken to unknown areas after suspected militants shot dead three church leaders and injured four others in Kangpokpi on Wednesday, while a civilian was gunned down and his wife was wounded in Noney district.

Decked churches, midnight masses: India celebrates Christmas

Decked churches, midnight masses: India celebrates Christmas

Rediff.com25 Dec 2025

Christmas was celebrated with devotion and festive gaiety across India, with churches decked in lights, midnight masses, and community events spreading cheer. Leaders extended greetings, and celebrations took place in various states with prayers for peace and harmony.

Security Forces Launch Hostage Rescue Operation In Manipur

Security Forces Launch Hostage Rescue Operation In Manipur

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district have launched operations to rescue individuals held hostage by armed groups. The operations include area domination exercises and search operations to locate missing persons and apprehend those responsible for the hostage situation.

Opposition Leader Urges Probe into Meghalaya's Garo Hills Violence

Opposition Leader Urges Probe into Meghalaya's Garo Hills Violence

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Meghalaya's opposition leader, Mukul Sangma, has called for an independent inquiry into the Garo Hills violence, citing the need for accountability and due process to restore public confidence.

Militants Attack Manipur Village, Two Dead And Homes Torched

Militants Attack Manipur Village, Two Dead And Homes Torched

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Suspected militants attacked Kultuh Kuki village in Manipur's Kamjong district, killing two people and burning 30 houses. This incident follows the recovery of six Naga civilians' bodies, believed to be hostages. Security forces are investigating, while the Kuki Baptist Convention and a Congress leader have condemned the violence and criticised the government's response.

Nagaland Police Appeal For Peace Amid Manipur Tensions

Nagaland Police Appeal For Peace Amid Manipur Tensions

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Nagaland Police have urged citizens to maintain peace and communal harmony amid concerns over the law and order situation in Manipur and the possibility of disturbances spilling over into Nagaland.

Goa Congress MLA Files Fresh Complaint Against Right Wing Leader

Goa Congress MLA Files Fresh Complaint Against Right Wing Leader

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

A Goa Congress MLA has filed a new complaint against right-wing leader Gautam Khattar, citing an old video of him allegedly making derogatory statements about St Francis Xavier.

Manipur violence probe panel gets six-month extension

Manipur violence probe panel gets six-month extension

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Centre has granted a six-month extension to the Commission of Inquiry investigating the 2023 Manipur violence, pushing the deadline for its report to November 20. This marks the fifth extension for the panel, which was formed in June 2023 to probe the ethnic clashes that resulted in over 260 deaths.

Sri Lanka Court To Probe Ex-Intelligence Chief's Torture Allegations

Sri Lanka Court To Probe Ex-Intelligence Chief's Torture Allegations

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

A Sri Lankan court has ordered a five-member expert judicial panel to investigate claims of torture made by former state intelligence chief Suresh Sallay, who is currently detained under the anti-terror act and on a hunger strike. Sallay was arrested in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.

Ahead of World Cup 2026, Pope Leo XIV throws his support behind team USA

Ahead of World Cup 2026, Pope Leo XIV throws his support behind team USA

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Pope Leo may have traded his life in Chicago for the ornate apartments at the Vatican's apostolic palace, but he still plans to root for his old national team at the World Cup this month.

Attacks may soon target prayers inside, warns Kerala church head

Attacks may soon target prayers inside, warns Kerala church head

Rediff.com2 Jan 2026

Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, head of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, condemns attacks against Christians in India and urges government authorities to control religious fanatics. He highlights the constitutional right to religious freedom and criticizes the silence of governing bodies in the face of increasing attacks.

K V Thomas Predicts LDF Victory, Cites Congress Infighting

K V Thomas Predicts LDF Victory, Cites Congress Infighting

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

K V Thomas, Kerala's Special Representative in New Delhi, forecasts a third term for the CPI(M)-led LDF government, attributing the UDF's potential failure to internal conflicts and criticising the BJP for introducing 'consumerism' into Kerala politics.

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Rediff.com22 May 2026

AM Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu from IUML and VCK respectively were sworn in as ministers in Tamil Nadu, increasing the number of allies in the TVK government. This marks the first time representatives from both parties have been inducted into the state cabinet, signifying a shift in Tamil Nadu's coalition dynamics.

Khamenei Among 10 Of The World's Longest-Serving Leaders

Khamenei Among 10 Of The World's Longest-Serving Leaders

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

From founding fathers to Europe's most unyielding rulers, these figures have not just held office, they have established a cult of leadership and will leave legacies, mostly mixed, that few can rival.

St Francis Xavier remarks: Goa police to issue LOC against Khattar

St Francis Xavier remarks: Goa police to issue LOC against Khattar

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Goa Police are initiating a Look Out Circular (LOC) against Gautam Khattar after alleged objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier. Khattar is accused of hurting religious sentiments and creating communal discord. The move aims to prevent him from fleeing the country as police search for him.

Goa Police Issue Lookout Notice For Speaker Over Saint Remarks

Goa Police Issue Lookout Notice For Speaker Over Saint Remarks

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Goa Police have issued a Look Out Circular against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar for alleged objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier and arrested his brother in Uttarakhand. The arrest follows widespread condemnation and protests over Khattar's remarks at an event in Goa.

Remarks against St Francis Xavier spark outrage in Goa

Remarks against St Francis Xavier spark outrage in Goa

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

A political row has erupted in Goa after a right-wing speaker allegedly made objectionable remarks against St. Francis Xavier, Goa's patron saint, leading to a police complaint and demands for his arrest.

BJP Defends Shone George's Criticism of Kerala Media House

BJP Defends Shone George's Criticism of Kerala Media House

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

BJP state general secretary S Suresh defends party leader Shone George's criticism of a Malayalam daily, Deepika, alleging its misuse for political interests ahead of the Kerala Assembly polls. The BJP maintains it respects all religions and aims for equal justice, denying any communal stance.

Why Goa Police Filed FIR Against Right Wing Speaker

Why Goa Police Filed FIR Against Right Wing Speaker

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Goa Police have registered an FIR against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar for allegedly making objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa, sparking political outrage and demands for his arrest.

Church of England appoints first-ever female archbishop

Church of England appoints first-ever female archbishop

Rediff.com3 Oct 2025

The Church of England has appointed Sarah Mullally as its first-ever female Archbishop of Canterbury. The appointment follows the resignation of Reverend Justin Welby and was approved by King Charles III.

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Kerala's voters are sophisticated, educated, and unforgiving. They have once again made it clear that no government is entitled to remain in power. The Congress would do well to remember this, points out Ramesh Menon.

Trump shares AI-image of himself as Jesus after slamming Pope as 'terrible'

Trump shares AI-image of himself as Jesus after slamming Pope as 'terrible'

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on Pope Leo XIV over the pontiff's views on American foreign policy and crime, escalating tensions between the White House and the Vatican.

Right-wing activist booked for remarks against Goa's patron saint

Right-wing activist booked for remarks against Goa's patron saint

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Goa Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar for allegedly making objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. The controversy erupted after a video of Khattar's address at an event went viral, leading to widespread condemnation and demands for his arrest.

BJP Defends Shone George's Criticism of Kerala Media House

BJP Defends Shone George's Criticism of Kerala Media House

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The BJP has defended its leader Shone George's criticism of a Malayalam newspaper, Deepika, alleging it was favouring the UDF ahead of Kerala's Assembly elections. The party claims it respects all religions and aims for equal treatment.

Goa Police Seek Arrest Of Speaker Over Offensive Remarks

Goa Police Seek Arrest Of Speaker Over Offensive Remarks

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

A local court has issued a non-bailable warrant against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar, wanted by Goa Police for allegedly making offensive remarks against St Francis Xavier.

Muraleedharan Criticises Blaming Communities for Voting Choices in Kerala

Muraleedharan Criticises Blaming Communities for Voting Choices in Kerala

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Congress leader K Muraleedharan criticises blaming communities for voting choices in Kerala, responding to BJP leaders' remarks about the Catholic church. He also expresses confidence in the UDF's prospects in the upcoming election and criticises the Election Commission's arrangements.

Kerala: Police Injured As BJP, CPI(M) Workers Clash

Kerala: Police Injured As BJP, CPI(M) Workers Clash

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Three police officers were injured in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, following a clash between BJP and CPI(M) workers over a property dispute. Police have registered cases against workers from both parties and have taken several into custody, leading to further protests.

Goa Police File FIR Over Remarks Against Saint

Goa Police File FIR Over Remarks Against Saint

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Goa Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar over his alleged objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the state. The controversy erupted after a video of Khattar addressing an event went viral, leading to widespread condemnation and demands for his arrest.

Goa Faces Uproar Over Remarks Against St Francis Xavier

Goa Faces Uproar Over Remarks Against St Francis Xavier

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Controversy escalates in Goa over alleged objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, with protests and police complaints filed. The Congress demands the sacking of a minister, while the CM calls for maintaining communal harmony.

Rahul Gandhi Alleges Kerala CM Vijayan's Alliance with Forces Attacking Minorities

Rahul Gandhi Alleges Kerala CM Vijayan's Alliance with Forces Attacking Minorities

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of aligning with forces that attack minorities, during election rallies in Kerala. He also criticised the CM on other issues including alleged corruption and economic failures.

Rahul Gandhi Targets CPI(M) and BJP in Kerala Poll Campaign

Rahul Gandhi Targets CPI(M) and BJP in Kerala Poll Campaign

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi intensified the UDF's campaign for the Kerala polls, accusing the CPI(M) of stealing gold from the Sabarimala temple and questioning PM Modi's silence on the issue. He also addressed concerns about rubber prices and the FCRA amendments.

Attack on Diego Garcia shows Iran can hit deep in Europe: Netanyahu

Attack on Diego Garcia shows Iran can hit deep in Europe: Netanyahu

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that recent missile attacks demonstrate Iran's capacity to strike globally, posing a threat to Europe and the rest of the world. He highlighted the need for international action to counter Iran's nuclear and missile programmes.

UK: Indian church leader dead

UK: Indian church leader dead

Rediff.com11 Mar 2008

Dr Thomas Mar Makarios, metropolitan of the Canada, Britain and Europe Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, died on February 23 at Newcastle General Hospital, London. Dr Mar Makarios, 82, was seriously injured in a car accident on January 5 and remained on life support system thereafter.

In Easter sermons, Australian church leaders urge forgiveness for disgraced cricketers

In Easter sermons, Australian church leaders urge forgiveness for disgraced cricketers

Rediff.com1 Apr 2018

A cheating scandal that has ripped through the core of Australia's most venerated pastime, cricket, prompted church leaders to provide guidance over the Easter weekend on how to emerge from the moral tailspin.