News for 'democratic'

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.

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.

Vijay visits Lok Bhavan again, no word on govt formation

Vijay visits Lok Bhavan again, no word on govt formation

Rediff.com7 May 2026

TVK chief Vijay has arrived at the Lok Bhavan to meet Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, a day after he staked claim to form the government with the support of the Congress party.

Himanta Biswa Sarma: From AASU to BJP's Northeast face

Himanta Biswa Sarma: From AASU to BJP's Northeast face

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Himanta Biswa Sarma's return as Assam's Chief Minister underscores the BJP's increasing dominance in the northeast, marked by both development and divisive policies.

Why Puducherry Voters Like N Rangaswamy

Why Puducherry Voters Like N Rangaswamy

Rediff.com5 May 2026

In Puducherry, where constituencies have fewer than 30,000 electors on average, it is usual for N Rangaswamy to call out people he knows by name during his roadside election meetings.

Shashi Tharoor Moves Delhi HC Against AI-Generated Deepfake Videos

Shashi Tharoor Moves Delhi HC Against AI-Generated Deepfake Videos

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has approached the Delhi High Court seeking a ban on AI-generated deepfake videos that purportedly show him praising Pakistan. The court has issued summons to social media platforms and the Centre, indicating it may pass an interim order in Tharoor's favour.

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.

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.'

Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP's Divisive Politics In Punjab

Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP's Divisive Politics In Punjab

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the BJP of engaging in divisive politics and attempting to incite violence in Punjab for electoral gains, while reaffirming his government's commitment to peace and communal harmony.

Allahabad HC: State, Police Responsible For Justice Delays

Allahabad HC: State, Police Responsible For Justice Delays

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Allahabad High Court has criticised the Uttar Pradesh government and police for the massive pendency of criminal cases in district courts, citing insufficient staff, lack of police cooperation, and delays in forensic reports.

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.

Trump unhurt as shots fired at White House press dinner, shooter arrested

Trump unhurt as shots fired at White House press dinner, shooter arrested

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Gunshots fired at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Dinner led to the evacuation of President Donald Trump and other senior officials, causing chaos and a security lockdown.

Trump Evacuated After Gunman Opens Fire Outside Dinner

Trump Evacuated After Gunman Opens Fire Outside Dinner

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

President Donald Trump and other top White House officials were evacuated unharmed from the annual White House Correspondents' dinner after a gunman opened fire outside the hotel ballroom. The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, has been arrested. World leaders have expressed relief that Trump and other guests were unharmed, emphasising that political violence has no place in a democracy.

'Explain in 24 hrs': Kharge gets EC notice for calling Modi a terrorist

'Explain in 24 hrs': Kharge gets EC notice for calling Modi a terrorist

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The Election Commission has issued a stern notice to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a 'terrorist'. Kharge has been asked to explain his remarks within 24 hours.

How Many Crorepatis Are Fighting Tamil Nadu Elections?

How Many Crorepatis Are Fighting Tamil Nadu Elections?

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

The polling for the Tamil Nadu Assembly's 234 seats will take place on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

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.

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.

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.

Jamia Millia tense as students protest RSS event on campus

Jamia Millia tense as students protest RSS event on campus

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Students at Jamia Millia Islamia University protested an event marking 100 years of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), citing concerns over the 'saffronisation' of the campus and unequal treatment by the university administration.

EVMs Secured In Tamil Nadu After Assembly Election

EVMs Secured In Tamil Nadu After Assembly Election

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Following the conclusion of the Tamil Nadu Assembly election, election commission officials have transferred the sealed EVMs, VVPATs, and other election materials to secure strong rooms at designated counting centres throughout the state.

BJP Serves Defamation Notice To Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann

BJP Serves Defamation Notice To Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann

Rediff.com7 May 2026

BJP leader Tarun Chugh has served a legal notice to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann for linking the BJP to recent blasts, demanding proof or resignation.

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.

West Bengal Elections: How Many Crorepatis In Phase I?

West Bengal Elections: How Many Crorepatis In Phase I?

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Out of the 294 West Bengal Assembly seats, 152 will go to the polls in the first phase on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

'Not people's mandate': Mamata says she won't resign as CM

'Not people's mandate': Mamata says she won't resign as CM

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Mamata Banerjee, the outgoing Chief Minister of West Bengal, has refused to step down after her party's defeat in the assembly elections, alleging a conspiracy and irregularities in the counting process. She also accused the Election Commission of working in favour of the BJP and announced a fact-finding committee to investigate post-poll violence.

TN, WB assembly elections: Stalin, Rajini, Suvendu vote

TN, WB assembly elections: Stalin, Rajini, Suvendu vote

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Take a look at the famous faces who exercised their democratic right.

Trinamool dares BJP after repoll order in Falta

Trinamool dares BJP after repoll order in Falta

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The TMC has challenged the BJP to win the Falta assembly seat in West Bengal, where a re-election has been ordered due to electoral offences. The TMC has dared the BJP to deploy its full resources, including top leaders and central forces, while expressing confidence in the electorate's support.

SC refuses delay in poll panel case, says it outweighs Sabarimala hearing

SC refuses delay in poll panel case, says it outweighs Sabarimala hearing

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The Supreme Court has declined the Centre's request to postpone the hearing on petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the 2023 law, which excludes the CJI from the committee responsible for appointing election commissioners, stating the matter is of utmost importance.

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.

TMC Leader Alleges BJP Conspiracy Against Mamata Banerjee

TMC Leader Alleges BJP Conspiracy Against Mamata Banerjee

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee accuses the BJP of using central agencies to undermine Mamata Banerjee in the West Bengal elections, alleging a lack of public support for the saffron party.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mammootty: The Superstar Who Turned Flaws Into Firepower

Mammootty: The Superstar Who Turned Flaws Into Firepower

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Mammootty's greatness lies not in hiding his flaws, but in turning them into his most powerful acting tools, observes Sreehari Nair.

'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.'

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.

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.

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.