News for 'democracy'

US, India envoys in China review strategic ties, trade push

US, India envoys in China review strategic ties, trade push

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

David Perdue said in a post on X that the US-India relationship delivers real results through close cooperation in diverse areas, including defence, energy and through Quad engagement.

JNUSU members detained during protest march to education ministry

JNUSU members detained during protest march to education ministry

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Several members of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) were detained after attempting to march towards the Ministry of Education to protest alleged institutional neglect in higher education.

EC removes Mamata's chief secy, DGP ahead of Bengal poll

EC removes Mamata's chief secy, DGP ahead of Bengal poll

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The Election Commission's move to transfer West Bengal's chief secretary and DGP soon after the announcement of Assembly poll dates triggered a political slugfest.

If Iran, Why Not Pakistan, Mr Trump?

If Iran, Why Not Pakistan, Mr Trump?

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

If the Iranian regime needs to be punished for promoting quasi-terrorist outfits like Hezbollah and Hamas, then what about Pakistan which has spent decades exporting terror around the world, killing thousands, particularly in Afghanistan and India? asks M R Narayan Swamy.

'Better to focus on...': India to Mamdani on Umar Khalid note

'Better to focus on...': India to Mamdani on Umar Khalid note

Rediff.com9 Jan 2026

India has expressed its disapproval of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani writing a note to jailed activist Umar Khalid, emphasizing the importance of respecting the independence of the judiciary in other democracies.

Congress-led UDF closely monitoring CPI(M) leader's independent election bid in Kerala

Congress-led UDF closely monitoring CPI(M) leader's independent election bid in Kerala

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The Congress-led UDF is closely monitoring CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran's decision to contest as an independent candidate in the upcoming Assembly election. UDF leaders are considering supporting Sudhakaran, while the CPI(M) expresses disappointment and denies mistreatment.

Aiyar versus Tharoor: Congress's men of letters in war of letters

Aiyar versus Tharoor: Congress's men of letters in war of letters

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

A public exchange of open letters between Congress leaders Mani Shankar Aiyar and Shashi Tharoor reveals a significant rift over foreign policy, particularly concerning Israel and the Sabarimala temple issue.

'Historic bond': Trump's message to India on 77th Republic Day

'Historic bond': Trump's message to India on 77th Republic Day

Rediff.com26 Jan 2026

US President Donald Trump greeted India on its 77th Republic Day, highlighting the historic bond between the two democracies amid ongoing trade tensions.

Mohamed Nasheed: Democratic Institutions, Not Bombing, Can Bring Change

Mohamed Nasheed: Democratic Institutions, Not Bombing, Can Bring Change

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed advocates for building democratic institutions over military intervention in resolving international conflicts, particularly in the context of the escalating West Asia crisis. He also discusses the impact of the conflict on the Maldives' tourism-dependent economy and calls for a stronger, more understanding India in the Indian Ocean Region.

Third row seat: Cong accuses BJP of insulting Rahul, Kharge at R-Day event

Third row seat: Cong accuses BJP of insulting Rahul, Kharge at R-Day event

Rediff.com26 Jan 2026

The Congress party has accused the BJP government of disrespecting opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge by seating them in the third row during the Republic Day parade. BJP leaders have responded by questioning Rahul Gandhi's attendance at other important events.

'No genuine voter will be axed': CEC stresses fear-free Bengal polls

'No genuine voter will be axed': CEC stresses fear-free Bengal polls

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, has stated that the primary goal of the Election Commission is to ensure all voters in West Bengal can participate in the upcoming assembly elections without violence or intimidation.

End Of Bangladesh's Two Women Political Era

End Of Bangladesh's Two Women Political Era

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

Tarique Rahman is Bangladesh's first male prime minister in more than three decades, ending an era of female leadership that began in 1991.

Jaishankar schools West over democracy, shows inked finger

Jaishankar schools West over democracy, shows inked finger

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

Jaishankar said that India is a democratic society and gives nutrition support to 800 million people. He noted that there are parts where democracy is working well and there could be parts where it is not. However, he underscored that it is should not considered a universal phenomenon.

Lok Sabha rejects Oppn motion to remove Om Birla as Speaker

Lok Sabha rejects Oppn motion to remove Om Birla as Speaker

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The Lok Sabha rejected a resolution seeking the removal of Om Birla as Speaker by a voice vote amidst opposition protests and demands for an apology from Home Minister Amit Shah.

Fighting 'existential war' against US, Israel: Iran

Fighting 'existential war' against US, Israel: Iran

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Amid escalating tensions, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh declares Iran's unwavering commitment to a 'heroic nationalist defence' against perceived American and Israeli aggression, vowing to resist what he calls an 'invasion' to the very end.

Tarique Rahman Sworn In As Bangladesh PM

Tarique Rahman Sworn In As Bangladesh PM

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri attended the swearing-in ceremony.

'It's a real thing': Netanyahu hails 'Modi hug'

'It's a real thing': Netanyahu hails 'Modi hug'

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Netanyahu also expressed profound gratitude for the Indian government's steadfast support following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks in southern Israel. Addressing PM Modi, he stated, 'You stood next to Israel, you stood by Israel, you stood for Israel, you stood for the truth. Thank you, my friend.'

Mamata Banerjee and Narendra Modi clash over President Murmu's remarks on tribal development in West Bengal.

Mamata Banerjee and Narendra Modi clash over President Murmu's remarks on tribal development in West Bengal.

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after President Droupadi Murmu raised concerns about the lack of development among tribal communities, leading to a clash between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Punjab BJP Seeks Probe into Accused's Death in Gurdaspur Policemen Murder Case

Punjab BJP Seeks Probe into Accused's Death in Gurdaspur Policemen Murder Case

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar has called for an impartial probe into the death of Ranjit Singh, an accused in the murder of two policemen in Gurdaspur, following questions raised about the police encounter.

Trump announces trade deal after call with Modi, cuts tariffs

Trump announces trade deal after call with Modi, cuts tariffs

Rediff.com3 Feb 2026

India and the US have agreed to a trade deal that will see Washington reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%, according to US President Donald Trump. The deal also includes commitments from India to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers against the US and to increase purchases of American products.

Pak man with Iran ties convicted for plotting to kill Trump

Pak man with Iran ties convicted for plotting to kill Trump

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

A Pakistani man with ties to Iran has been convicted in a US court for plotting to assassinate former US President Donald Trump and other American politicians.

Can India Solve The Air Pollution Problem?

Can India Solve The Air Pollution Problem?

Rediff.com5 Jan 2026

Mundane as it may seem, this is in some ways a metaphor for the challenges facing the nation, argue Arvind Subramanian and Devesh Kapur in their new book, A Sixth Of Humanity.

'Threat to PM': BJP women MPs write to Birla urging action

'Threat to PM': BJP women MPs write to Birla urging action

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

BJP's women MPs have requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to take strict action against opposition MPs for disruptive behavior in Parliament, including protests that prevented Prime Minister Modi from addressing the House.

SC Orders States to Develop Protocol for Open Prisons

SC Orders States to Develop Protocol for Open Prisons

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has directed all states and Union territories in India to develop a time-bound protocol for improving the functioning of open prisons, ensuring they serve as effective institutions for reformation and rehabilitation.

Sabarimala women's entry issue returns ahead of SC hearing

Sabarimala women's entry issue returns ahead of SC hearing

Rediff.com15 Feb 2026

The Sabarimala temple women's entry issue has resurfaced in Kerala, leading to a political debate between the ruling CPI(M) and the opposition Congress, as the Supreme Court is scheduled to consider review petitions related to its 2018 verdict.

BJP blocked PM Manmohan Singh's reply in 2004: Congress

BJP blocked PM Manmohan Singh's reply in 2004: Congress

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

Amid disruptions in the Lok Sabha, opposition parties are protesting the denial of speaking rights to the Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, during discussions on the President's address. The Congress party draws parallels to a similar incident in 2004 when then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was prevented from speaking.

Murmu's 'upset' remark sparks spat with Mamata; Modi jumps in

Murmu's 'upset' remark sparks spat with Mamata; Modi jumps in

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee escalates tensions ahead of assembly polls by accusing President Droupadi Murmu of political bias and criticising her stance on tribal welfare, sparking a major controversy.

'Stay tuned' for Modi-Trump meet: US envoy

'Stay tuned' for Modi-Trump meet: US envoy

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The US President had hosted Modi for an official working visit in Washington, DC, on February 13 last year.

Tarique Rahman's remarkable turnaround from 17-year self-exile

Tarique Rahman's remarkable turnaround from 17-year self-exile

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

Tarique Rahman, after 17 years in self-exile, has led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to a significant victory, becoming the country's Prime Minister. This marks a major turnaround for the BNP after years of being targeted by the Awami League government.

Modi Inaugurates Micron Semiconductor Plant in Sanand

Modi Inaugurates Micron Semiconductor Plant in Sanand

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Micron Technology's semiconductor plant in Sanand, Gujarat, highlighting India's growing presence in the hardware sector and its strong partnership with the United States in AI and chip technologies.

Modi to embark on two-day Israel visit, to boost defence ties

Modi to embark on two-day Israel visit, to boost defence ties

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Israel to enhance defence and trade cooperation amid Middle East tensions. Discussions will include defence, security, and the situation in Gaza.

Please protect...: Mamata urges CJI amid I-PAC raid row

Please protect...: Mamata urges CJI amid I-PAC raid row

Rediff.com17 Jan 2026

The BJP has accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of attempting to separate the state from India by inciting violence and protecting illegal immigrants, drawing parallels to the 1905 partition of Bengal.

After Keralam, chorus for renaming Delhi, West Bengal

After Keralam, chorus for renaming Delhi, West Bengal

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged the central government to approve West Bengal's request to rename the state, following the approval of a similar proposal for Kerala.

Why India's Japan Connection Is Important

Why India's Japan Connection Is Important

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

In a region increasingly shaped by competition and coercion, such collaboration strengthens security without confrontation, builds capacity without dependency and promotes order without domination, points out Dr Kumar.

Lack Of Political Unity Is India's Greatest Challenge

Lack Of Political Unity Is India's Greatest Challenge

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

'No, India and China were not about to go to all-out war over a few rocks of Galwan.' 'The full picture of what went on at the highest level between two heads of State will not be known for a very, very long time and rightly so,' points out Colonel Anil A Athale, former head of the history division, ministry of defence.

Sonia slams Centre's silence on Khamenei's killing

Sonia slams Centre's silence on Khamenei's killing

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Sonia Gandhi has criticised the Modi government's silence on the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, arguing it raises doubts about India's foreign policy direction and credibility.

Cong stands for truth, defends truth of India: Rahul Gandhi in Berlin

Cong stands for truth, defends truth of India: Rahul Gandhi in Berlin

Rediff.com19 Dec 2025

Rahul Gandhi engaged with German think-tanks and addressed the Hertie School in Berlin, discussing India's trajectory, democracy, and global cooperation. He also addressed the Indian community, emphasizing the importance of truth and democratic values.

Bengal braces for post-SIR rolls on Saturday amid rising voter tensions

Bengal braces for post-SIR rolls on Saturday amid rising voter tensions

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

The upcoming publication of West Bengal's electoral rolls is expected to intensify political tensions and debates ahead of the Assembly elections, reflecting concerns about voter inclusion and identity.

Democracy does put...: Jaishankar rebuts US Senator

Democracy does put...: Jaishankar rebuts US Senator

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar countered a US senator's claim that democracy does not put food on the table, citing India's PMGKAY program which provides food to 800 million people. Jaishankar argued that different parts of the world have different experiences with democracy and that the model of globalization has contributed to issues with democracy in some regions. He emphasized that India's democratic system effectively delivers food security, highlighting the PMGKAY program as an example.

'India-Bangladesh ties under Khaleda Zia complex and strained'

'India-Bangladesh ties under Khaleda Zia complex and strained'

Rediff.com30 Dec 2025

Former Indian envoys reflect on the life and legacy of Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, highlighting her role in restoring democracy and the complex relationship between India and Bangladesh during her tenures.