News for 'free speech'

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee has declared that removing the BJP from power is her life's mission, alleging election rigging and vowing to support TMC workers. She announced a nationwide anti-BJP programme and protested against post-poll violence and government actions.

India trying to muzzle free speech: Gangrape filmmaker

India trying to muzzle free speech: Gangrape filmmaker

Rediff.com5 Mar 2015

Leslee Udwin has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "deal with the unceremonious silencing of the film".

China envoys trying to limit free speech in US: Lawmakers

China envoys trying to limit free speech in US: Lawmakers

Rediff.com16 Sep 2012

Accusing Chinese diplomats stationed in the United States of attempting to limit free speech, US lawmakers have said that a recent move to push a little known American city to remove a mural on 'free Tibet' and 'Taiwan independence' is 'a grave affront'.

Amit Shah Vows To End 'Goonda Raj' In Bengal If BJP Wins

Amit Shah Vows To End 'Goonda Raj' In Bengal If BJP Wins

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised to end 'goonda raj' and 'syndicate raj' in West Bengal if the BJP wins the state elections. He also pledged to identify and take action against infiltrators and stop cattle smuggling.

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting 'Melody' toffees to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, calling it a 'gimmick' while India faces an 'economic storm'. He accused Modi of prioritising public relations over addressing the struggles of farmers, labourers, and youth, a sentiment echoed by other Congress leaders.

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.

Modi backers stage 'funeral of free speech' near Wharton

Modi backers stage 'funeral of free speech' near Wharton

Rediff.com24 Mar 2013

A group of Indian Americans, appalled by Wharton India Economic Forum's withdrawal of invitation to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, staged a demonstration near the Wharton School where the summit is underway. Arthur J Pais reports.

Free speech: Don't let them finish off your rights

Free speech: Don't let them finish off your rights

Rediff.com2 Mar 2017

Don't let people with repugnant ideas abrogate your rights by taking advantage of your commitment to free speech, observes Mihir S Sharma

Trump says his mother had a crush on King Charles amid palpable tension

Trump says his mother had a crush on King Charles amid palpable tension

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Despite outward displays of cordiality, a formal visit by King Charles III to the US revealed underlying tensions between the leaders, highlighted by subtle rebukes and contrasting views on key issues.

Salman Rushdie: The free speech champion whose 'verses' put his life at risk

Salman Rushdie: The free speech champion whose 'verses' put his life at risk

Rediff.com13 Aug 2022

The attack on Rushdie sent shock waves around the world, with world leaders and literary stalwarts saying they were appalled at the attack on the author who championed free speech and lived under the threat of assassination for nearly half his life.

Why Justice Manmohan Urges Viewing Criticism As Suggestion

Why Justice Manmohan Urges Viewing Criticism As Suggestion

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Supreme Court judge Justice Manmohan stated that criticism of the existing legal system should be viewed as a suggestion for improvement rather than a condemnation. He highlighted the importance of addressing shortcomings to elevate the system and urged law firms to adopt a global perspective on legal education. He also emphasised the need for human oversight in technology and addressing the issue of pendency in the legal system.

CM Vijay promises to be the only power centre in Tamil Nadu

CM Vijay promises to be the only power centre in Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com10 May 2026

C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, marking the first non-DMK, non-AIADMK government in the state in 60 years. The ceremony was attended by Rahul Gandhi, and Vijay promised transparent governance and asserted his sole authority. He signed files to implement key promises, including free power for domestic consumers.

Why Modi Empowered ED To Tackle Financial Crimes

Why Modi Empowered ED To Tackle Financial Crimes

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

'Biggest Single Danger Is If Remittances Come Down'

'Biggest Single Danger Is If Remittances Come Down'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'At the first sign of real trouble, that money will move. There will be a run.'

Universities should be bastions of free speech, debate: Prez

Universities should be bastions of free speech, debate: Prez

Rediff.com28 Aug 2016

He said that over the years, India has conveyed the message of friendship, cooperation, debate and discussions through the institutions of higher learning.

'Don't Know Whether Vijay Understands...'

'Don't Know Whether Vijay Understands...'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

'...the enormous responsibility and faith the youth has put on his shoulders, that he is going to solve their problems.'

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

At G7, India pledges to protect free speech

At G7, India pledges to protect free speech

Rediff.com28 Jun 2022

Leaders of the powerful G7 grouping and its five partner countries, including India, have said that they are committed to open public debate and the free flow of information online and offline while guarding the freedom, independence and diversity of civil society actors.

Amit Shah Pledges To Resolve Gorkha Issue In Six Months

Amit Shah Pledges To Resolve Gorkha Issue In Six Months

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised to resolve the decades-old Gorkha issue within six months if the BJP comes to power in West Bengal, addressing a rally in Kurseong, Darjeeling district.

TMC Alleges BJP Conspiracy Before West Bengal Elections

TMC Alleges BJP Conspiracy Before West Bengal Elections

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The TMC has intensified its attack on the BJP, alleging a 'larger conspiracy' involving central agencies ahead of the second phase of West Bengal polls on April 29, while also questioning the credibility of the Election Commission.

Mamata Banerjee Claims BJP Using All Resources To Win Bengal Election

Mamata Banerjee Claims BJP Using All Resources To Win Bengal Election

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of deploying its entire machinery, including Union ministers and NDA-ruled state CMs, to defeat her party in the West Bengal assembly elections. She also criticised the BJP's promises to migrant workers and alleged the misuse of central forces during the polls.

Where free speech is the new villain

Where free speech is the new villain

Rediff.com15 Sep 2019

The government of UP has made it a habit of sorts to move against -- or better still, lock up -- mediapersons who give cause for displeasure, says Shuma Raha.

'Betrayed again': Modi accuses TMC of denying Bengal women 33% quota

'Betrayed again': Modi accuses TMC of denying Bengal women 33% quota

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of betraying women by obstructing the passage of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, which aimed to reserve 33 per cent of seats in Parliament and state assemblies for women. Modi asserted that women in West Bengal would punish the TMC in the upcoming assembly elections.

Banerjee Retorts to Modi's Claims on Bengal's Fish Production

Banerjee Retorts to Modi's Claims on Bengal's Fish Production

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims regarding the state's fish production, accusing him of misrepresenting facts and alleging restrictions on non-vegetarian food consumption in BJP-ruled states.

'The times are bad': Ramjas scare threatens free speech

'The times are bad': Ramjas scare threatens free speech

Rediff.com26 Feb 2017

On February 23, Ambedkar University and an NGO Women Against Sexual Violence and State Repression were to organise an event to observe the Kashmiri Women's Day of Resistance on the 26th anniversary of the alleged mass sexual violence unleashed by the army against the villagers of Kunan and Poshpora in Kashmir.

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Alliance in Kerala

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Alliance in Kerala

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi has accused the ruling LDF in Kerala and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of being Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "B-team" and of secretly joining hands with the BJP, alleging a compromised leadership and lack of accountability.

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.

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.

Can't curtail freedom of speech: HC rejects plea on Sidhu's cancer claims

Can't curtail freedom of speech: HC rejects plea on Sidhu's cancer claims

Rediff.com4 Dec 2024

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed a plea seeking action against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his claims about his wife's recovery from stage 4 cancer, emphasizing the right to free speech. The court stated that Sidhu's claims were merely opinions and could be countered by others through free speech, not legal action. The petitioner argued that Sidhu's claims about the efficacy of certain dietary remedies could mislead the public, but the court asserted that if Sidhu's wife, a doctor herself, felt better with a specific diet, it was her prerogative. The court further suggested that the petitioner focus on issues like alcohol and cigarette consumption if truly concerned about public interest.

Banerjee Hits Back at Modi's Claims on Bengal's Fish Production

Banerjee Hits Back at Modi's Claims on Bengal's Fish Production

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims about the state's fish production, accusing him of misrepresenting facts and alleging restrictions on non-vegetarian food consumption in BJP-ruled states.

Why does PepsiCo want to curb free speech?

Why does PepsiCo want to curb free speech?

Rediff.com7 Aug 2018

'Ask a beat journalist their opinion, and you will always be told that they are more worried about writing something that would upset a company than something that would anger a politician,' says Mihir S Sharma.

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The trailer of the film, produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah and directed by Kamakhya Narain Singh, released on Tuesday and landed straight into controversy. It tracks the stories of three Hindu women from three different states going against their families to marry Muslim men and then being forced to convert.

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

'Kerala Story 2' sparks fresh political firestorm ahead of release

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

The upcoming Hindi film 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond' is embroiled in controversy, similar to its predecessor, with accusations of hate propaganda and defenses of legitimate concern over religious conversion.

MIT punishes Indian-American student for pro-Palestine speech

MIT punishes Indian-American student for pro-Palestine speech

Rediff.com2 Jun 2025

MIT leadership said that they stand by the punishment they issued to Vemuri.

The Golden Globes 2026 Watchlist On OTT

The Golden Globes 2026 Watchlist On OTT

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

Missed any of the 2026 Golden Globe-winning movies or series? Namrata Thakker has you covered, as she lists where you can watch the winners.

17 cancer drugs to become cheaper as FM announces 'trust-based' customs regime

17 cancer drugs to become cheaper as FM announces 'trust-based' customs regime

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

Sitharaman in her budget speech said that the customs proposal "aim to further simplify the tariff structure, support domestic manufacturing, promote export competitiveness, and correct inversion in duty".

Uttam's Take: Kunal Kamra and Free Speech

Uttam's Take: Kunal Kamra and Free Speech

Rediff.com30 Jan 2020

Uttam Ghosh offers his take on the decisions of airlines banning stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra for his alleged heckling television journalist Arnab Goswami aboard a flight on Tuesday.

'Kasab Drank Urine, Didn't Eat Biryani'

'Kasab Drank Urine, Didn't Eat Biryani'

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

'The jail staff told me Kasab was served only jail food and not biryani.' 'They told me that Kasab was beaten regularly after court proceedings.' 'And they filled Kasab's bottle with urine so that whenever he felt thirsty he used to drink urine.'

Section 66A has gone, but here are other hurdles to free speech

Section 66A has gone, but here are other hurdles to free speech

Rediff.com24 Mar 2015

On Tuesday, Section 66A of Information Technology Act was struck down. However, these other laws could still spell trouble for free speech

Right to comment on social media part of free speech: HC in case against Newslaundry

Right to comment on social media part of free speech: HC in case against Newslaundry

Rediff.com29 Jul 2022

Right to comment on content on social media or TV channels is a facet of free speech under the Constitution and it will be in the interest of the public that every broadcaster has the right of criticism and review even in relation to programmes created by others, the Delhi high court said on Friday.