News for 'legislators'

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

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

Rediff.com5 days 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.

Vande Mataram stops after 2 stanzas in Karnataka assembly; BJP members protest

Vande Mataram stops after 2 stanzas in Karnataka assembly; BJP members protest

Rediff.com11 hours ago

BJP legislators in Karnataka protested during a special legislative session by reciting the full version of Vande Mataram after the official recording played in the Assembly and Council ended after only two stanzas. The Congress government in the state has a standing order to play only the first two stanzas at its programmes, except for high-profile events.

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

Rediff.com3 days ago

US President Donald Trump is expected to sign the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 later on Friday (local time). A White House official confirmed the development to ANI without revealing further details.

Nitish-Nishant share stage amid cheers: Is JD-U signalling succession?

Nitish-Nishant share stage amid cheers: Is JD-U signalling succession?

Rediff.com3 days ago

JD(U) president Nitish Kumar and his son Nishant Kumar made a joint appearance at a party orientation programme, sparking speculation about Nishant's political future and potential leadership roles within the party. The event, aimed at training parliamentarians and legislators, also saw Nishant urging attendees to uphold his father's principles of "zero tolerance for crime, corruption and communalism."

Why not deny bow-and-arrow symbol to both Sena factions, SC asks EC

Why not deny bow-and-arrow symbol to both Sena factions, SC asks EC

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Supreme Court has questioned the Election Commission's decision to allot the Shiv Sena's bow-and-arrow symbol to the Eknath Shinde faction, asking if the possibility of denying the symbol to both factions was adequately considered. The court also raised concerns about using legislative majority as a test while disqualification proceedings against MLAs were pending. The Shinde faction argued for the validity of the legislative majority test, citing significant vote share and legal precedents.

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Rediff.com14 hours ago

BJP National President Nitin Nabin was welcomed by a fleet of brightly painted bulldozers at a Meerut toll plaza, marking the start of his significant two-day visit to Uttar Pradesh focused on Assembly election preparations, organisational meetings, and temple visits.

Omar Abdullah Backs UPI Charges, Urges Consumer Protection

Omar Abdullah Backs UPI Charges, Urges Consumer Protection

Rediff.com5 days 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.

CJP joins Odisha students' stir, seeks minister's exit over textbook errors

CJP joins Odisha students' stir, seeks minister's exit over textbook errors

Rediff.com2 hours ago

Students and political parties in Odisha are protesting widespread errors in school textbooks, demanding the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond. The CJP has extended support to the Navnirman Yuva Chhatra Sangathan's 'satyagraha', while the state government has begun distributing corrected textbooks.

US House clears Russia Sanctions bill seeking 100% tariffs on India

US House clears Russia Sanctions bill seeking 100% tariffs on India

Rediff.com4 days ago

The US House of Representatives has passed the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, authorising President Trump to impose sanctions on Russia's energy sector and tariffs on countries like India and China that purchase Russian oil and gas. The legislation aims to curb Russia's ability to evade existing sanctions and reduce global dependence on its energy exports, despite some Democratic opposition to increased tariff authority for the President.

Trump signs Russia sanctions bill; India faces 100% tariff risk

Trump signs Russia sanctions bill; India faces 100% tariff risk

Rediff.com2 days ago

Trump has enacted a new law imposing significant sanctions on Russia and Iran, which could lead to tariffs of up to 100% on major energy importers like India and China.

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.com6 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.

Karnataka drought list to cross 200 taluks; losses touch Rs 18,000 cr

Karnataka drought list to cross 200 taluks; losses touch Rs 18,000 cr

Rediff.com1 days ago

Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara announced that over 200 taluks are likely to be declared drought-affected after phased assessments. The state has convened a special legislative session to discuss the crisis, farmer assistance, and seek significant financial relief and loan waivers from the Union government, while also alleging a "step-motherly attitude" from the Centre regarding fund releases.

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

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

Rediff.com5 days 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.

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.

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.com6 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.

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Rediff.com4 days ago

Anant Nag has dedicated the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 to the people and unique cultural environment of Karnataka, crediting the state for his unparalleled success in both art and commercial films.

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.com6 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.com9 Sep 2026

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.com12 Sep 2026

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.com11 Sep 2026

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.com6 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.

Crude Oil, West Asia Tensions to Dictate Indian Stock Market Momentum

Crude Oil, West Asia Tensions to Dictate Indian Stock Market Momentum

Rediff.com1 days ago

Indian stock market investors are closely monitoring crude oil prices, geopolitical developments in West Asia, and the implications of the US Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, which could impose tariffs on countries, including India, that purchase Russian crude.

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

Rediff.com13 hours ago

The political confidence required to place high-end Japanese aircraft and personnel on Indian soil is itself a data point.
It indicates a level of trust that would have been difficult to imagine when India-Japan defence ties were largely symbolic, explains Varun Arya.

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.

Is Rohit Pawar dumping Sharad Pawar to join Congress?

Is Rohit Pawar dumping Sharad Pawar to join Congress?

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

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.

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.

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'It is a blunt and dangerous attempt to pressure India to sign BTA on one-sided terms.'

US lawmaker wants India named in Russia Sanctions bill

US lawmaker wants India named in Russia Sanctions bill

Rediff.com6 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.

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.

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.com6 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 days 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.

Left parties to fight Tamil Nadu bypoll separately from TVK front

Left parties to fight Tamil Nadu bypoll separately from TVK front

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

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.com5 days 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.com6 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.

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

Rediff.com3 days ago

Mamata Banerjee, who founded the Trinamool Congress through an act of rebellion against the Congress, now faces a similar internal revolt that threatens the very identity of her party. The Election Commission's interim decision to withhold the TMC name and symbol for the upcoming bypolls highlights a deeper struggle for political inheritance. This situation, unprecedented for the party, forces both Mamata's loyalists and rebels to seek electoral recognition without their established identity, marking a significant challenge to her long-standing dominance.