News for 'democratic nation'

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Rediff.com10 May 2026

BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma has been appointed as the Chief Minister of Assam, marking the NDA's third consecutive government in the state. Sarma's swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for May 12, with key political figures expected to attend.

What Is The Thucydides Trap That Xi Warned Trump About?

What Is The Thucydides Trap That Xi Warned Trump About?

Rediff.com14 May 2026

An explainer on the 'Thucydides Trap' and its relevance to current tensions between the United States and China, as discussed by President Xi Jinping.

Why V D Satheesan Will Be A Good Kerala Chief Minister

Why V D Satheesan Will Be A Good Kerala Chief Minister

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan expressed confidence in V D Satheesan's ability to lead Kerala as Chief Minister, citing his vision, competence, and strength. Other Congress leaders have also expressed their views on the new CM.

TVK: 34.91%. DMK: 24%. AIADMK: 21%.

TVK: 34.91%. DMK: 24%. AIADMK: 21%.

Rediff.com5 May 2026

One of the standout stories of the TVK victory was that of 30-year-old R Sabarinathan, the son of Vijay's driver from Virugambakkam.

Trump administration says US 'not at war' with Iran

Trump administration says US 'not at war' with Iran

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Trump administration maintains the US is 'not at war' with Iran, despite military engagement reaching a critical legal threshold under the War Powers Resolution, potentially leading to a confrontation with Congress.

65% of Bengal's new MLAs face criminal cases, up sharply from 49% in 2021

65% of Bengal's new MLAs face criminal cases, up sharply from 49% in 2021

Rediff.com6 May 2026

A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals a significant increase in West Bengal MLAs with declared criminal cases, rising from 49% in 2021 to 65% in the latest assembly. The report also highlights a rise in the number of 'crorepati' MLAs.

'Ready to Take the Risk': Inside Congress's Vijay Bet

'Ready to Take the Risk': Inside Congress's Vijay Bet

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Whether Vijay has the political spine to stitch together a stable government from this patchwork of conditions, demands, and midnight drama is the question Tamil Nadu is living through right now.

Kerala heads to key polls: 2.71 cr voters to decide LDF-UDF-NDA contest

Kerala heads to key polls: 2.71 cr voters to decide LDF-UDF-NDA contest

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Kerala is set to hold its Assembly election, with the ruling LDF aiming for a historic third term, the UDF seeking a comeback, and the NDA striving to gain a foothold in the state's political landscape.

My Friend, Chief Minister V D Satheesan

My Friend, Chief Minister V D Satheesan

Rediff.com22 May 2026

'The most enduring part of Satheesan's personality is he is good at heart. That is the reason why everybody, from the old to small children, get attracted to him.'

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP is showing strong leads in West Bengal and Assam, while actor Vijay's party is making a significant debut in Tamil Nadu. The Congress is ahead in Kerala, offering some consolation amid the changing political landscape in the state elections.

'China, India or other hellhole': Trump reposts anti-India rant

'China, India or other hellhole': Trump reposts anti-India rant

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Donald Trump has amplified a critique of birthright citizenship by sharing a video of Michael Savage, who claimed the legal system allows immigrants to exploit American laws.

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

Rediff.com14 May 2026

V D Satheesan, a 61-year-old lawyer-turned-politician, has emerged as a prominent figure in Kerala politics, known for his aggressive opposition to the Left government and his role in revitalising the Congress party. His journey from student politics to a key leadership position highlights his strategic acumen and dedication to addressing local issues.

Quota bill defeat: NDA nationwide stir against Oppn from Saturday

Quota bill defeat: NDA nationwide stir against Oppn from Saturday

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

In a swift political counter-offensive, the Bharatiya Janata Party and its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners have announced a massive, nationwide protest campaign targeting the Opposition.

Controversy Erupts After Kharge Calls Modi 'Terrorist'

Controversy Erupts After Kharge Calls Modi 'Terrorist'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's remark calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a 'terrorist' has triggered strong reactions from the BJP, who have demanded an apology from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin.

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.

Distress address, outright lies: Oppn tears into Modi's address

Distress address, outright lies: Oppn tears into Modi's address

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Opposition leaders have criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation, calling it politically motivated and a misuse of official platforms during ongoing elections.

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.

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.

Punjab BJP Seeks Sedition Case Against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann

Punjab BJP Seeks Sedition Case Against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Punjab BJP has called for a sedition case against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for blaming the party for recent blasts in the state, alleging his remarks could be used by Pakistan to defend against accusations of sponsoring terrorism.

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

Rediff.com1 May 2026

If Trump doesn't like India, that is his choice. But to use such distasteful language on a public platform is deeply offensive and needs to be called out, points out Amberish K Diwanji.

AAP Accuses Centre Of Misusing Agencies In Punjab

AAP Accuses Centre Of Misusing Agencies In Punjab

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) held protests across Punjab against the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) action against state minister Sanjeev Arora, accusing the central government of misusing agencies against its leaders. The BJP criticised the AAP workers' behaviour during the protests.

BJP Alleges TMC Inciting Violence, Warns Of Legal Action

BJP Alleges TMC Inciting Violence, Warns Of Legal Action

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The BJP has accused the Trinamool Congress of inciting post-poll violence in West Bengal by impersonating BJP supporters, warning that they will face legal consequences. The BJP asserts its members have never engaged in post-election violence and claims TMC cadres are using BJP symbols to create unrest.

TMC, BJP face off in Bengal; 3-way battle in Tamil Nadu

TMC, BJP face off in Bengal; 3-way battle in Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Voting has commenced for the assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, with over 3.60 crore electors eligible to vote in 152 constituencies in Bengal and 5.73 crore voters in Tamil Nadu. Security measures are heightened to ensure free and fair polling.

Did Modi violate poll code? EC to examine complaint

Did Modi violate poll code? EC to examine complaint

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Election Commission will examine a complaint filed by opposition parties alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation violated the Model Code of Conduct for elections.

FBI chief Kash Patel sues 'The Atlantic' for $250 mn over drinking row

FBI chief Kash Patel sues 'The Atlantic' for $250 mn over drinking row

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

FBI director Kash Patel has escalated his war with the media by filing a massive $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic and reporter Sarah Fitzpatrick.

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.

Vijay wins floor test with 144 votes; DMK walks out, AIADMK divided

Vijay wins floor test with 144 votes; DMK walks out, AIADMK divided

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay-led TVK government successfully won the trust vote in the Tamil Nadu assembly, securing 144 votes in favour, with support from the Congress, VCK, and an AIADMK rebel faction.

Tamil Nadu poll campaign ends, voting on Thursday

Tamil Nadu poll campaign ends, voting on Thursday

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The high-intensity election campaign in Tamil Nadu concluded with accusations and counter-accusations between the DMK and AIADMK, while new entrant TVK made its presence felt. Key issues included state autonomy, corruption, law and order, and the delimitation bill.

Leh body wants direct talks with Amit Shah during his Ladakh visit

Leh body wants direct talks with Amit Shah during his Ladakh visit

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has requested direct talks with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his upcoming visit, deeming the scheduled sub-committee meeting insufficient for resolving Ladakh's long-standing issues.

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Misusing Institutions and Fueling Communal Discord

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Misusing Institutions and Fueling Communal Discord

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has accused the BJP of misusing democratic institutions and stoking communal discord in Bengal, criticising their 'double engine' governance model.

'Same feeling in India': Cong leader's remarks on Trump event shooting sparks row

'Same feeling in India': Cong leader's remarks on Trump event shooting sparks row

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

A controversy has erupted over remarks made by Maharashtra MLA Vijay Wadettiwar regarding the shooting incident at an event attended by former US President Donald Trump. The BJP has demanded a condemnation from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alleging that Wadettiwar justified the incident and is hoping for a similar attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

'Priyanka Gandhi is a national leader, not confined to UP alone'

'Priyanka Gandhi is a national leader, not confined to UP alone'

Rediff.com12 Jan 2026

UPCC chief Ajai Rai clarifies Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's role in Uttar Pradesh Congress campaigns, emphasizing her national leadership while confirming her continued prominence in the state.

Trump Has Forced The World Into New Reality

Trump Has Forced The World Into New Reality

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

America's population and its media and its democratic structures seem fine with this, which is why Trump continues as he does, asserts Aakar Patel.

If he's Singham, I'm Pushpa: TMC leader vs UP-cadre IPS in Bengal

If he's Singham, I'm Pushpa: TMC leader vs UP-cadre IPS in Bengal

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress supporters protested against an Election Commission-appointed IPS officer in West Bengal, accusing him of intimidating party workers ahead of the second phase of polling.

Both Dravidian majors defeated for first time since 1967

Both Dravidian majors defeated for first time since 1967

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Actor-politician Vijay's newly formed party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has made a surprising and strong showing in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, leading in nearly 100 constituencies and leaving established Dravidian parties like DMK and AIADMK trailing.

'Real Issue Is Land, Not Religion In Assam'

'Real Issue Is Land, Not Religion In Assam'

Rediff.com5 May 2026

'The real fault line in Assam is not Hindu versus Muslim. It is Assamese versus Bengali -- and within that, the specific anxiety about undocumented Bangladeshi settlers claiming land and altering the demographic balance of the state.'

What Suvendu Adhikari Must Understand

What Suvendu Adhikari Must Understand

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The electorate did not vote for the BJP as much as they voted against the TMC. This is an important distinction that the new government will ignore at its own peril, points out Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Trump's unpredictable Iran policy baffles Americans, allies

Trump's unpredictable Iran policy baffles Americans, allies

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Donald Trump's inconsistent statements and actions regarding the conflict with Iran have drawn criticism and confusion, raising questions about American credibility and the direction of US foreign policy.

'Kerala Needs A Leader Who Can Think Out Of The Box'

'Kerala Needs A Leader Who Can Think Out Of The Box'

Rediff.com8 May 2026

'Among the leaders whose names are going around, V D Satheesan is the leader who will fit this kind of situation.'

Dr Ambedkar's Legacy Through Stamps

Dr Ambedkar's Legacy Through Stamps

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Dr B R Ambedkar's legacy has been honoured repeatedly through India's postal history, with stamps capturing his role as the architect of the Constitution and a champion of social justice.