News for 'legislators'

Sena row: Can legislative majority decide disqualification cases? SC asks

Sena row: Can legislative majority decide disqualification cases? SC asks

Rediff.com11 hours ago

The Supreme Court has questioned the reliability of legislative majority as the sole determinant for political party ownership, especially when disqualification proceedings are pending against the very legislators forming that majority. This query arose during arguments concerning the Shiv Sena faction dispute between Eknath Shinde and Uddhav Thackeray.

BSP's lone UP legislator Umashankar Singh dies at 55

BSP's lone UP legislator Umashankar Singh dies at 55

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Umashankar Singh, the Bahujan Samaj Party's sole MLA in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly from the Rasra constituency, has passed away at the age of 55 after a prolonged illness. Political leaders, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP president Mayawati, and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, have expressed their condolences.

2 MLAs defy Vaiko's order to resign, to function as DMK legislators

2 MLAs defy Vaiko's order to resign, to function as DMK legislators

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Two MDMK MLAs, T M Rajendran and R Senthil Selvan, have refused to resign from their Assembly seats despite demands from MDMK General Secretary Vaiko. They assert their status as DMK legislators, having won on the DMK's 'Rising Sun' symbol, and have pledged loyalty to DMK leadership, including M K Stalin and Udhayanidhi Stalin.

Omar Abdullah Backs UPI Charges, Urges Consumer Protection

Omar Abdullah Backs UPI Charges, Urges Consumer Protection

Rediff.com8 hours ago

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed support for the Centre's decision to levy charges on UPI transactions, citing the cost of maintaining the digital payment infrastructure. However, he emphasised the need to protect retail consumers from these fees. Abdullah also discussed the upcoming seven-day Assembly session, highlighting the government's commitment to smooth functioning and addressing MLAs' concerns, and touched upon efforts to tackle drainage issues affecting water bodies.

SC resumes final hearing on Sena row, Shinde camp defends EC verdict

SC resumes final hearing on Sena row, Shinde camp defends EC verdict

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Supreme Court resumed hearing pleas challenging the Maharashtra Speaker's decision regarding the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena MLAs and the Election Commission's recognition of the Shinde faction as the "real" Shiv Sena. Senior advocate Neeraj Kishan Kaul, representing the Shinde camp, argued that the EC has jurisdiction under Article 324 to examine a party's democratic character and organisational structure, especially when the Thackeray faction's constitution was not registered with the poll panel. He emphasised that the Shinde faction's case is based on a split within the political party, not just its legislative wing, citing cadre discontent. The hearing remains inconclusive.

US Bill Imposing 100% Tariffs On India Set For House Vote

US Bill Imposing 100% Tariffs On India Set For House Vote

Rediff.com19 hours ago

The US House of Representatives has advanced a bill that would empower President Donald Trump to impose 100 per cent tariffs on countries, including India, that purchase oil and gas from Russia, and also extend sanctions on Iran. The legislation, which previously passed the Senate, aims to curb Russia's energy revenue amidst the Ukraine conflict.

Goa govt drops plan to table anti-conversion bill

Goa govt drops plan to table anti-conversion bill

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Goa government has decided not to introduce its anti-religious conversion bill during the ongoing monsoon session of the state assembly, following significant pushback from legislators representing the minority community.

A Raja among 3 top DMK leaders booked over remarks against CM Vijay

A Raja among 3 top DMK leaders booked over remarks against CM Vijay

Rediff.com1 days ago

Police have registered cases against senior DMK leaders A Raja, P K Sekar Babu, and Vasantham Karthikeyan for allegedly making defamatory remarks against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay and Energy Resources and Law Minister R Nirmal Kumar during recent party protests. The controversy stems from CM Vijay's comments questioning DMK chief M K Stalin's MISA detention during the Emergency, which the DMK claims is a long-standing narrative.

JD-U softens stand on UCC, says 'will not oppose for no reason'

JD-U softens stand on UCC, says 'will not oppose for no reason'

Rediff.com1 days ago

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary stated that the JD(U) will thoroughly study the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill before deciding on its stance, indicating they will not oppose it without valid reasons. This position contrasts with the RJD's strong opposition and highlights the JD(U)'s independent approach within the NDA.

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

Rediff.com7 days ago

A government bill proposing to widen the remit of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) is facing scrutiny from Members of Parliament. Concerns have been raised that the Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2026, could reduce the premier institute's autonomy. The bill, currently under examination by a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, aims to incorporate ISI as a 'body corporate' to strengthen governance and promote academic excellence, but critics fear increased government control.

UP govt using Goonda Act as tool of harassment: Allahabad HC

UP govt using Goonda Act as tool of harassment: Allahabad HC

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Allahabad High Court has strongly criticised the Uttar Pradesh government for the alleged misuse of the Goonda Act, stating it appears to be used as a tool of harassment. The court emphasised that the stringent law must be invoked with caution and only in clear cases to maintain public order, while quashing an order that declared a person a "goonda" based on acquitted cases and beat information reports.

'Talaq-e-hassan' valid form of divorce, rules Gauhati HC

'Talaq-e-hassan' valid form of divorce, rules Gauhati HC

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Gauhati High Court has affirmed the validity of 'Talaq-E-Hassan' as a form of divorce in India, directing a petitioner to register his divorce under the new Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorce Act, 2024.

Ladakh groups to launch massive stir for statehood in Kargil on Sep 20

Ladakh groups to launch massive stir for statehood in Kargil on Sep 20

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) announced a major protest rally in Kargil on September 20, demanding justice for victims of police firing in Leh last year and protesting the central government's perceived lack of seriousness in talks regarding Ladakh's demands. The KDA, along with the Leh Apex Body (LAB), rejected the compensation offered by the Lieutenant Governor as inadequate and called for the withdrawal of all cases against arrested protesters. They criticised the recent talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs as "unproductive" and reiterated their demands for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh.

Is Rohit Pawar dumping Sharad Pawar to join Congress?

Is Rohit Pawar dumping Sharad Pawar to join Congress?

Rediff.com6 days ago

BJP MLC Parinay Fuke claimed NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar was considering joining the Congress, citing deteriorating relations with Supriya Sule. In response, Pawar accused Fuke of shielding alleged corruption, particularly concerning illegal sand businesses, paddy procurement issues, and irregularities in an employment guarantee scheme, challenging him to address farmers' concerns instead of making baseless claims.

Vijay's resolution for Tamil as HC's principal language gets House nod

Vijay's resolution for Tamil as HC's principal language gets House nod

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution, moved by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, urging the Centre to recognise Tamil as the principal language of the Madras High Court. The resolution highlights Tamil's classical status and the need for judgments to be available in the local language, while also addressing historical demands and constitutional provisions.

Rahul vs Vijay: TN ruling allies at war over 2029 PM candidate

Rahul vs Vijay: TN ruling allies at war over 2029 PM candidate

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Ruling TVK legislators are advocating for Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay as their Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2029 Lok Sabha polls, a move dismissed by the Congress party which insists on Rahul Gandhi as their choice. This internal conflict within the alliance highlights a growing divide over national political ambitions.

US lawmaker wants India named in Russia Sanctions bill

US lawmaker wants India named in Russia Sanctions bill

Rediff.com1 days ago

US lawmakers are racing to amend the Russia sanctions bill before recess. One amendment specifically names India, China, and other countries as potential targets for 100% tariffs due to their oil trade with Russia. Another significant amendment proposes to scrap the tariff section entirely, while others address presidential waiver powers and aid to Ukraine.

Commercial Coal Block Auctions to Generate 55,000 Crore Investment, 490,000 Jobs

Commercial Coal Block Auctions to Generate 55,000 Crore Investment, 490,000 Jobs

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian coal ministry announced that 147 commercial coal blocks auctioned since 2020 are expected to attract approximately 55,000 crore in capital investment, generate 490,000 jobs, and contribute significantly to state revenues.

DMK MLAs evicted from TN assembly after ruckus over Vijay's remarks

DMK MLAs evicted from TN assembly after ruckus over Vijay's remarks

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Tamil Nadu assembly descended into chaos, leading to the eviction of DMK MLAs, as they vehemently protested Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's statements.

Vijay clarifies 'touching jaw' gesture in assembly after row

Vijay clarifies 'touching jaw' gesture in assembly after row

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has clarified that his recent jaw-touching gesture in the State Assembly was unintentional, not meant to mock DMK president MK Stalin. The gesture sparked social media debate and drew criticism from CPI(M) State Secretary P Shanmugam, who linked it to Stalin's jaw fracture during the Emergency. Vijay made the gesture while criticising the DMK over alleged corruption.

US House wraps up debate on bill targeting India, China over Russian oil

US House wraps up debate on bill targeting India, China over Russian oil

Rediff.com5 hours ago

The US House of Representatives is debating a bill that would authorise the President to impose sanctions on Russia and steep tariffs on its oil and gas trading partners, including India and China. The bill, aimed at pressuring Russia over the Ukraine war, has faced opposition but is expected to be put to a vote.

Mumbai MLAs' question quality drops from 50% to 33%: Report

Mumbai MLAs' question quality drops from 50% to 33%: Report

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

A recent report by Praja Foundation indicates a significant decline in the quality and quantity of questions raised by Mumbai MLAs in the Maharashtra assembly. The 'Mumbai's MLA Report Card, 2026' shows a sharp drop in average scores for question quality and a 72 per cent reduction in the number of questions asked compared to previous assemblies, raising concerns about legislative oversight.

Left parties to fight Tamil Nadu bypoll separately from TVK front

Left parties to fight Tamil Nadu bypoll separately from TVK front

Rediff.com3 days ago

The CPI and CPI(M) have announced they will contest one Assembly segment each in the upcoming Tamil Nadu bypolls, while continuing their outside support for the ruling TVK. This decision creates a five-cornered contest and highlights the Left parties' independent stance, aimed at preventing indirect BJP influence and addressing public issues.

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com7 hours ago

The Indian government has challenged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of levying fees on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants. The government highlighted that a parliamentary standing committee, which included Congress MPs, had previously backed a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI. This move aims to ensure the financial sustainability of the UPI ecosystem and reduce its dependence on government subsidies, a concern raised by the committee due to the significant funding gap between allocations and operational costs.

Disha Salian CBI probe a conspiracy against Thackeray family: Raut

Disha Salian CBI probe a conspiracy against Thackeray family: Raut

Rediff.com1 days ago

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has accused the Centre of orchestrating a political conspiracy through the CBI's FIR in the Disha Salian death case. Raut claims the probe is designed to tarnish the Thackeray family's reputation and target Aaditya Thackeray, linking it to broader political manoeuvres and an ongoing Supreme Court case.

Mahua Moitra faces egg attack, 'go back' slogans in Bengal's Nadia

Mahua Moitra faces egg attack, 'go back' slogans in Bengal's Nadia

Rediff.com4 hours ago

TMC MP Mahua Moitra was allegedly pelted with eggs by BJP workers during a visit to Nadia district's Tehatta area, despite police presence. Moitra invoked a recent Supreme Court observation regarding her apprehension of such attacks, questioning police inaction and alleging contempt of court. The BJP has condemned the act but denied involvement.

Brother Vijay, what you said is true: Stalin reacts to CM's 'jaw gesture'

Brother Vijay, what you said is true: Stalin reacts to CM's 'jaw gesture'

Rediff.com6 days ago

DMK president M K Stalin has responded to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's remarks regarding MISA, recalling his severe physical abuse in prison during the Emergency. Stalin dismissed Vijay's corruption allegations as 'politically motivated lies' and clarified his arrest and harsh conditions under MISA in 1976, including the death of a colleague.

Trump promises $5,000 to every adult American if GOP wins midterms

Trump promises $5,000 to every adult American if GOP wins midterms

Rediff.com6 days ago

President Donald Trump has announced a promise to issue a USD 5,000 dividend to every adult US citizen if Republicans secure victory in both the House and the Senate in the upcoming midterm elections, citing the nation's economic success under his administration.

No tolerance for abusive remarks against women, CM Vijay warns Oppn

No tolerance for abusive remarks against women, CM Vijay warns Oppn

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay issued a stern warning against personal attacks, double-meaning insults, and derogatory language targeting women, particularly in political discourse. Speaking in the Assembly, he recalled past humiliations faced by late CM J Jayalalithaa and condemned recent incidents involving women personalities, stressing that such behaviour would face immediate legal consequences. He also outlined his administration's vision for public security and zero-tolerance against crime.

West Bengal's New Legislators Sworn Into Assembly

West Bengal's New Legislators Sworn Into Assembly

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Newly elected West Bengal legislators, including Chief Minister Sivendu Adhikari, were sworn into the Assembly on Wednesday. Pro tem Speaker Tapas Roy administered the oath to the new members.

Vijay nominates AIADMK turncoats for 2 Tamil Nadu bypolls

Vijay nominates AIADMK turncoats for 2 Tamil Nadu bypolls

Rediff.com6 days ago

The ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has announced its candidates, K Maragatham Kumaravel and P Sathyabama, for the upcoming October 6 bypolls in Maduranthakam and Dharapuram Assembly seats in Tamil Nadu. This marks the first electoral challenge for the TVK government since its formation, setting the stage for a direct contest with DMK and anticipated participation from AIADMK.

Custodial death victim's parents try to stop CM Vijay's convoy, detained

Custodial death victim's parents try to stop CM Vijay's convoy, detained

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

A couple, identified as the parents of a custodial death victim, was detained by police in Chennai after attempting to breach Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's convoy. They sought to petition the Chief Minister for justice regarding their son's death in police custody in March. The incident caused a brief slowdown of the CM's vehicle.

CM Vijay breaks TN assembly tradition, moves to ministers' row

CM Vijay breaks TN assembly tradition, moves to ministers' row

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay departed from a long-standing Assembly tradition by sitting with ministers in the front row instead of his designated chair. This move, considered unprecedented for a chief minister, occurred during a session where the presence of department secretaries was also debated.

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Rediff.com7 days ago

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is set to chair a crucial TVK alliance coordination meeting in Chennai. The meeting aims to formalise the ruling coalition's structure, common minimum programme, and joint steering committee. However, the absence of key Left allies and a public rift between TVK and Congress over national leadership aspirations threaten to destabilise the alliance, highlighting a significant test for CM Vijay's political management.

Over 50% of 18th LS bills passed in same session they were introduced: Data

Over 50% of 18th LS bills passed in same session they were introduced: Data

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

More than half of the bills introduced in the 18th Lok Sabha have been passed by both Houses in the same session, a significant acceleration compared to previous terms, raising concerns about the time available for legislative scrutiny and stakeholder consultations.

Row as MLA alleges hospital mortuary staff sexually abused female corpses

Row as MLA alleges hospital mortuary staff sexually abused female corpses

Rediff.com7 days ago

A Congress MLA in Madhya Pradesh has sparked a major controversy by alleging that staff at Rewa's Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital mortuary sexually abused the corpses of "beautiful" women and extorted money for post-mortems. The hospital administration has vehemently denied these claims as baseless, while the MLA insists an investigation will reveal the truth, citing a past incident where employees were sacked for irregularities.

Vijay's 'gift' leaves MLA singing his praises in assembly

Vijay's 'gift' leaves MLA singing his praises in assembly

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced official vehicles and a monthly allowance for MLAs to address public grievances and monitor government projects in their constituencies. This initiative aims to reduce financial burden, improve transparency, and ensure grassroots service delivery.

Punjab farmers begin week-long protest against Indo-US trade deal

Punjab farmers begin week-long protest against Indo-US trade deal

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Farmers under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha have initiated a week-long protest at the Chandigarh-Mohali border, demanding a minimum support price (MSP) based on the C2 plus 50 per cent formula, debt waivers, and opposing the proposed India-US trade deal, Electricity Amendment Bill, and Seed Bill. They also raised concerns about water depletion and sought resolutions based on riparian principles.

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge stated in the Legislative Council that no cases of communal riots or other crimes have been registered against the RSS. This statement, made in response to an opposition query, has sparked a political controversy, with the BJP criticising Kharge, a vocal RSS critic, for his alleged "political vendetta." Kharge, in turn, clarified that the RSS is not a registered legal entity, and therefore, cases are registered against individuals, not the organisation itself, calling for its registration for transparency.

Contest Nandigram by-poll, we won't field candidate: TMC rebels to Mamata

Contest Nandigram by-poll, we won't field candidate: TMC rebels to Mamata

Rediff.com7 days ago

The battle for the Trinamool Congress' name and election symbol is spilling into the Nandigram bypoll, with the rebel faction asking party supremo Mamata Banerjee to contest from there, promising not to field a candidate against her.