News for 'national politics'

Is Fadnavis shifting to national politics? He says...

Is Fadnavis shifting to national politics? He says...

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed speculation about a potential move to national politics, asserting his commitment to serving the state. He clarified that his visit to Delhi was to discuss Maharashtra's development projects with the central government, not for a change in his political role.

Karnataka govt's two-stanza Vande Mataram order sparks political storm

Karnataka govt's two-stanza Vande Mataram order sparks political storm

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Congress government in Karnataka has issued an order limiting the singing of 'Vande Mataram' to its first two stanzas at state programmes, with exceptions for events attended by high-ranking officials. This decision, based on a 1937 Congress resolution, has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition BJP, which labels it "appeasement politics" and an insult to the national symbol.

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

Rediff.com2 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.

Mamata-Congress tie-up in Nandigram: Has Bengal Oppn politics changed?

Mamata-Congress tie-up in Nandigram: Has Bengal Oppn politics changed?

Rediff.com23 hours ago

Former West Bengal Chief Minister's faction has announced support for the Congress candidate in the Nandigram assembly bypoll, marking a significant shift in state politics. This move comes amidst an internal party dispute within the Trinamool Congress and is seen as an attempt to consolidate anti-BJP votes and strengthen the INDIA bloc, despite a history of acrimonious rivalry between the two parties.

Put nation first, shoulder responsibility, Sitharaman tells Gen Z, Gen Alpha

Put nation first, shoulder responsibility, Sitharaman tells Gen Z, Gen Alpha

Rediff.com6 days ago

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called upon 'Gen Z' and 'Gen Alpha' to assume leadership, prioritise the nation, and contribute to its growth, rather than questioning what the country has done for them.

India Is A Maritime Nation In Geography, Not In Mindset

India Is A Maritime Nation In Geography, Not In Mindset

Rediff.com6 days ago

India may have a vast coastline and a strategic location, but it will become a true maritime nation only when its people understand, value and actively participate in the maritime ecosystem, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Kushner defends FIFA's $20 billion gamble, but concedes political miscalculation

Kushner defends FIFA's $20 billion gamble, but concedes political miscalculation

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Josh Kushner said Thrive Capital misjudged football's political dynamics, would have avoided FIFA's failed $20 billion rights plan, but still supports its aim of broader investment.

'Keep Sports Free From Politics': Pakistan hockey team won't travel to India; wants ACT shifted to neutral venue

'Keep Sports Free From Politics': Pakistan hockey team won't travel to India; wants ACT shifted to neutral venue

Rediff.com4 days ago

Refusing to travel to India citing "sensitive bilateral situation", Pakistan on Wednesday asked the Asian Hockey Federation to shift its Asian Champions Trophy matches to a neutral venue.

Govt forms panel for 'permanent political solution' to Gorkha issue

Govt forms panel for 'permanent political solution' to Gorkha issue

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

The Centre has established a committee to draft an agreement and finalise modalities for a 'permanent political solution' to the Gorkha identity issue in the Darjeeling hills and adjoining areas, following a tripartite meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gorkha leaders, and the West Bengal government.

Badminton Star Saina Nehwal Open to Future in Electoral Politics

Badminton Star Saina Nehwal Open to Future in Electoral Politics

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Badminton legend Saina Nehwal has expressed her openness to entering electoral politics in the future, stating her desire to contribute to India's development and continue serving the nation beyond her sporting career.

RSS links in new NCERT political science textbook panel: What will change?

RSS links in new NCERT political science textbook panel: What will change?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The National Council of Educational Research and Training has reconstituted the Textbook Development Team for class 11 and 12 political science with a mandate to integrate cultural rootedness, Indian knowledge systems and inclusion, with at least four of the members having direct or indirect links with the RSS.

Rahul Gandhi's Politics Of The Street Wins New Fans

Rahul Gandhi's Politics Of The Street Wins New Fans

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Rahul Gandhi's aggressive street politics is giving him a fresh political edge, but overplaying his role could hurt his credibility with the wider opposition, predicts M R Narayan Swamy.

From Smriti Irani to Mansoor, BJP gives UP a bigger role in national team

From Smriti Irani to Mansoor, BJP gives UP a bigger role in national team

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The BJP has announced its new national organisational team, with eight leaders from Uttar Pradesh receiving key appointments. These include two national vice-presidents, two general secretaries, two secretaries, and the chiefs of the OBC and Minority Morchas. The appointments reflect a strategic focus on youth, social diversity, and experienced campaigners, particularly after the party's recent electoral setbacks in the state.

India, 163 other nations back UN's 'Correct the World map' move; US opposes

India, 163 other nations back UN's 'Correct the World map' move; US opposes

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution, backed by India, to correct the world map for a more accurate representation of continental landmasses. The resolution addresses the distortions caused by the widely used Mercator projection, which minimises the perceived sizes of regions like Africa, Latin America, and South Asia, promoting an unbalanced global view. India supports the move towards more accurate cartographic practices, specifically endorsing broader use of Equal Area map projections.

UP assembly Speaker draws ire for leaving dais during national anthem

UP assembly Speaker draws ire for leaving dais during national anthem

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Uttar Pradesh assembly Speaker Satish Mahana has found himself at the centre of a controversy after he was seen walking away while the national anthem was played at an event in Unnao, drawing flak from the opposition. Mahana, however, claimed that the anthem was not played where he was given the guard of honour.

Cong refuses to withdraw Nandigram candidate despite arrest

Cong refuses to withdraw Nandigram candidate despite arrest

Rediff.com2 days ago

AICC general secretary K C Venugopal announced that the Congress would not withdraw its candidate Milan Pradhan from the Nandigram Assembly bypoll in West Bengal, despite his recent arrest. Pradhan was apprehended in connection with a 2007 anti-land acquisition movement case, shortly after the Trinamool Congress extended its support to him. Venugopal alleged political pressure and questioned the Election Commission's silence, vowing to elevate the issue to a national level.

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Monday's proceedings demonstrated that the legislative debate has become inseparable from the broader political crisis surrounding the NEET controversy.

Can A Couple With Different Political Views Have A Healthy Relationship?

Can A Couple With Different Political Views Have A Healthy Relationship?

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

With political divisions dominating conversations, can couples with opposing views stay together?

'Firmly believe Fadnavis will become PM sooner or later': CM's uncle

'Firmly believe Fadnavis will become PM sooner or later': CM's uncle

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' paternal uncle, Balasaheb Fadnavis, expressed his firm belief that his nephew would "sooner or later" become the Prime Minister of India. This statement comes amidst growing speculation about Devendra Fadnavis' potential shift to national politics, especially following recent political developments and claims by Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders.

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

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

Rediff.com2 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."

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.

India's Professional Hockey Model Praised By FIH President

India's Professional Hockey Model Praised By FIH President

Rediff.com3 days ago

International Hockey Federation (FIH) President Tayyab Ikram has commended India's professional approach to hockey, urging other Asian nations to adopt similar strategies to improve their global standing. He highlighted India's journey from past Olympic glory to recent bronze medals, positioning it as a model for development in the sport.

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.com2 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.

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'After announcing that she will return to Bangladesh, if she does not, her credibility will suffer.'

Mayawati's family succession plan for BSP: Ishan in, Akash and Deepika out

Mayawati's family succession plan for BSP: Ishan in, Akash and Deepika out

Rediff.com22 hours ago

BSP supremo Mayawati has announced a definitive decision regarding the involvement of her brother Anand Kumar's children in the party. She stated that only Ishan Anand would be given a role, while Akash Anand and Deepika Anand would be kept away. Mayawati cited Akash Anand's conduct and his father-in-law's influence as reasons for his exclusion, emphasising her commitment to the party's integrity and following the principles of BSP founder Kanshi Ram.

Can FIFA's small nations save Infantino's presidency?

Can FIFA's small nations save Infantino's presidency?

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Gianni Infantino's bid for a fourth term as FIFA president faces challenges from traditional football powers, but his strategy relies heavily on the support of smaller, emerging nations that benefit significantly from FIFA's development grants.

Pakistan Hockey Team Yet To Get Clearance For Asian Champions Trophy In India

Pakistan Hockey Team Yet To Get Clearance For Asian Champions Trophy In India

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has stated that the national team is yet to receive government clearance to participate in the men's Asian Champions Trophy in India, refuting claims of confirmed participation.

PM Modi said UP will be divided into 4 states: Minister

PM Modi said UP will be divided into 4 states: Minister

Rediff.com4 hours ago

SBSP chief Om Prakash Rajbhar has revived the long-standing discussion about dividing Uttar Pradesh, claiming Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him the state could be split into four parts after a caste census. Rajbhar's statement, made at a rally in Deoria, links the division to the 27% reservation issue and suggests a Rajbhar could become chief minister of a new Purvanchal state. The demand for UP's division has historical precedents, notably from former Chief Minister Mayawati.

Organisers apologise after playing North Korea's anthem before South Korea's hockey match

Organisers apologise after playing North Korea's anthem before South Korea's hockey match

Rediff.com3 days ago

South Korea's men's hockey team faced confusion when organisers mistakenly played North Korea's banned national anthem before their match, compounding earlier complaints regarding organistional issues at the Asian Games.

Will JD-U Blink On UCC In Bihar?

Will JD-U Blink On UCC In Bihar?

Rediff.com5 days ago

'Nitishji as CM never supported the UCC and publicly expressed his strong reservations over UCC.'

Sending troops to Ukraine means...: Putin's warning to Europe

Sending troops to Ukraine means...: Putin's warning to Europe

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Putin has issued a stark warning to European nations, declaring that any deployment of troops to Ukraine would be met with 'war with Russia'.

Iranian President urges BRICS to end Western dominance

Iranian President urges BRICS to end Western dominance

Rediff.com7 days ago

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged BRICS nations to expand trade in national currencies and build an inclusive global economic framework. He criticised "unilateral sanctions" by Western powers, stating they make emerging economies vulnerable and impact global food security. Pezeshkian emphasised BRICS' role in creating a balanced world order and highlighted Iran's geopolitical and energy capacities for cooperation.

When Asian Games made headlines for all the wrong reasons

When Asian Games made headlines for all the wrong reasons

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Asian Games, a major multi-sport event, has a long history of controversies extending beyond the sporting arena. From diplomatic disputes and selection rows to doping scandals and disputed decisions, these incidents have often highlighted the intersection of politics, national interests, and sports.

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

Rediff.com4 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.

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

It was left to an incensed Gen Z to show the rest of India that enough was enough, and that the time had come to shatter the fear psychosis generated by the government's authoritarian approach to protests and criticism, points out M R Narayan Swamy.

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Rediff.com7 days ago

Nepal's Hindu groups have sought an all-party discussion on restoring Hindu-nation status within three months.

Mayawati expels nephew Akash Anand from BSP

Mayawati expels nephew Akash Anand from BSP

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

BSP chief Mayawati has announced that her nephew Akash Anand has been "completely freed" from the party, following his father-in-law Ashok Siddharth's retirement from politics. Mayawati questioned Anand's commitment, suggesting his personal and family interests outweighed the party's, especially after his failure to repost her X post regarding Siddharth's retirement. This decision comes as the BSP prepares for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

'My work is in Maharashtra': Fadnavis rules out Delhi shift

'My work is in Maharashtra': Fadnavis rules out Delhi shift

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed rumours of his shift to national politics, asserting his commitment to the state. He also commented on the NEET paper leak issue, supporting the Union government's actions and criticising Uddhav Thackeray's remarks.

Opposition using students protest as political tool: Rajnath Singh

Opposition using students protest as political tool: Rajnath Singh

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has expressed serious concern over ongoing student protests in Delhi, accusing the opposition of using them as a 'political tool' to further their interests. He urged opposition parties to raise issues in Parliament rather than on the streets, amidst demonstrations against the NEET paper leak.

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Rediff.com6 days ago

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached a crucial consensus during the BRICS summit, agreeing that China and India should be partners, not rivals. The leaders pledged to maintain peace and tranquility in border areas, deepen cooperation, and support each other in multilateral forums, aiming to strengthen the Global South and promote a multipolar world order.