News for 'political controversy'

What Courts Gave Stalin From One Hand Took Away With Another

What Courts Gave Stalin From One Hand Took Away With Another

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

In more than one way, it's a setback for the DMK and Chief Minister Stalin in political terms. The electoral fall-out, if any, will have to wait until the next summer, only when assembly elections are due in the state, explains N Sathiya Moorthy.

ED grills Vadra for 5 hrs in land case; more quizzing on Wednesday

ED grills Vadra for 5 hrs in land case; more quizzing on Wednesday

Rediff.com15 Apr 2025

Vadra has been questioned multiple times by the federal probe agency in a different money laundering case.

'The Ire Was Aimed At Kunal Kamra'

'The Ire Was Aimed At Kunal Kamra'

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

'Habitat was viewed as the proxy for him and got unjustly targeted.'

'Police Encounters Were Done To Create Fear'

'Police Encounters Were Done To Create Fear'

Rediff.com2 Jun 2025

'...in the minds of the youth of Assam.' 'Now, no protests happen in Assam because of fear of police encounters.'

Pahalgam fallout: Pak shelves canals project after India's Indus treaty move

Pahalgam fallout: Pak shelves canals project after India's Indus treaty move

Rediff.com26 Apr 2025

Pakistan has halted the construction of contentious canals in Punjab province after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty following a deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir. The decision to suspend the canals project was made after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and agreed to address the concerns of Sindh province, where the project had sparked protests. The canals project, aimed at irrigating the desert region in Punjab, was seen as a threat to water resources in Sindh. Both sides have agreed to seek consensus on the issue in the Council of Common Interests (CCI), a high-powered inter-provincial body. Meanwhile, Pakistan has reiterated the importance of the Indus Water Treaty for its water security and economy, and condemned India's move to suspend it.

Jayant Narlikar: A Voice That Lit The Cosmos

Jayant Narlikar: A Voice That Lit The Cosmos

Rediff.com22 May 2025

'When Dr Murli Manohar Joshi wanted to start a course on astrology, Jayant was the first one to have the courage to stand up and say astrology is not science.' 'That's a very rare quality -- to stand up to authority.'

Allu Arjun Leaves For Cop Station

Allu Arjun Leaves For Cop Station

Rediff.com24 Dec 2024

Allu Arjun arrived Hyderabad's Chikkadpally police station on Tuesday to appear for questioning in connection with the tragic incident that occurred during the premiere of his movie Pushpa 2 on December 4.

After The Ceasefire: What Can India Expect?

After The Ceasefire: What Can India Expect?

Rediff.com12 May 2025

'One good outcome of Operation Sindoor -- perhaps, its best outcome -- could be that India has resumed meaningful contact directly with Pakistan at the military-to-military level,' observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

ED grills Robert Vadra for 5 hours on Day 2

ED grills Robert Vadra for 5 hours on Day 2

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

Robert Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for the second consecutive day on Tuesday in connection with a 2008 land deal in Haryana linked to a money laundering case. Vadra, who was accompanied by his wife Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, was questioned for about five hours and his statement was recorded by the ED. The session will resume on Wednesday. Vadra has termed the ED action "political vendetta." The probe against Vadra is linked to a land deal in Haryana's Manesar-Shikohpur, where a company named Skylight Hospitality Pvt Ltd, of which Vadra was a director, purchased a 3.5-acre land in 2008. The company later sold the land to realty major DLF in 2012, which led to controversy after an IAS officer cancelled the mutation, deeming the transaction as violative of state consolidation Act and related procedures.

Holi Or Jumma? Bihar Politicos Heat Up Festival Time

Holi Or Jumma? Bihar Politicos Heat Up Festival Time

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Ahead of Holi, controversial statements by leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and its ally Janata Dal-United in Bihar have heated up politics in the state which goes to the polls this winter.

Guv's show-cause notice to Siddaramaiah heats up Karnataka politics

Guv's show-cause notice to Siddaramaiah heats up Karnataka politics

Rediff.com1 Aug 2024

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday held discussions with his cabinet colleagues in the wake of the Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot reportedly issuing him a 'show-cause notice', seen as a precursor to sanctioning his prosecution in the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment 'scam'.

IIT Madras director defends cow urine claims, cites US journals

IIT Madras director defends cow urine claims, cites US journals

Rediff.com20 Jan 2025

IIT Madras director V Kamakoti defended his controversial statement claiming that cow urine has medicinal properties, citing scientific evidence published in US journals. He pointed to research published in 'Nature' in 2021 that identified peptides in cow urine with potential bioactivities. However, his remarks have been criticized by members of various political parties.

Rs 118 cr: MF Husain painting is India's most expensive

Rs 118 cr: MF Husain painting is India's most expensive

Rediff.com21 Mar 2025

MF Husain's Untitled (Gram Yatra), a 13-panel masterpiece from the 1950s, has been sold at a Christie's auction in New York for USD 13.8 million, setting a new record for the most expensive work of modern Indian art. The sale nearly doubles the previous record held by Amrita Sher-Gil's "The Story Teller." "Gram Yatra," meaning "village pilgrimage," is considered a cornerstone of Husain's oeuvre, celebrating the diversity of independent India. The painting was acquired by a doctor in Delhi in 1954 and later bequeathed to Oslo University Hospital. The proceeds of the sale will support the training of future doctors at the institution.

President's rule imposed in Manipur; assembly suspended

President's rule imposed in Manipur; assembly suspended

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

President's rule was imposed in Manipur on Thursday, with the state assembly put under suspended animation following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The decision came after months of ethnic violence that claimed over 250 lives. Singh's resignation was attributed to his handling of the violence and allegations of instigating conflict. The imposition of President's rule was met with a sense of hope by the Kuki-Zo community, who expressed distrust of the Meitei leadership.

Kunal Kamra granted anticipatory bail in Shinde remark case

Kunal Kamra granted anticipatory bail in Shinde remark case

Rediff.com28 Mar 2025

Comedian Kunal Kamra has been granted interim anticipatory bail by the Madras High Court in a case filed against him for allegedly making defamatory remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a stand-up comedy show. Kamra, who resides in Tamil Nadu, was summoned by the Mumbai Police and feared arrest, prompting him to seek bail from the Madras HC. The court granted him bail until April 7, on the condition that he executes a bond to the satisfaction of the judicial magistrate at Vanur in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu.

This is legal, mine...: Kangana on club demolition over Kamra's joke

This is legal, mine...: Kangana on club demolition over Kamra's joke

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has criticized comedian Kunal Kamra for his recent remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, calling them "disrespectful" and "in bad taste." Ranaut, who was speaking to reporters outside Parliament, said that Kamra's comedy was "disgracing" and that Shinde had earned his position through hard work. She also echoed Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' call for Kamra to apologize for his "low level comedy." The controversy comes after Shiv Sena members damaged the comedy club where Kamra's show took place, in response to his jokes about Shinde's political career and recent developments in Maharashtra.

Public spat, WhatsApp war among MPs expose TMC's internal rift

Public spat, WhatsApp war among MPs expose TMC's internal rift

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

Infighting within West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) came to the fore after a video of an alleged verbal spat between party MPs and screenshots of heated exchanges from its official WhatsApp group for parliamentarians went viral. The incident reportedly involved a public altercation at the Election Commission headquarters, followed by a heated exchange on the party's WhatsApp group, leading to accusations of misconduct and leaked screenshots. The controversy has triggered calls for action against the party chief whip, Kalyan Banerjee, who is accused of misbehavior and tarnishing the party's image.

Preity Zinta vs Congress over Rs 18 cr loan write-off, BJP link

Preity Zinta vs Congress over Rs 18 cr loan write-off, BJP link

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

Earlier, Preity posted about the platform's growing cynicism, especially when people expressed appreciation for public figures.

Modi-Yunus meeting likely at BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok

Modi-Yunus meeting likely at BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

There is a "high possibility" of a meeting between Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, a senior official said. The meeting comes amid strained ties between the two countries, marked by India's concerns over violence against Hindus and a rise of hardline Islamist forces in Bangladesh. Yunus's recent comments about India's northeastern states being landlocked and Bangladesh being the "only guardian of the ocean" in the region have drawn sharp reactions from Indian politicians. However, a Bangladesh official insists that Yunus's statement was misinterpreted.

Mohanlal apologises over Gujarat riots reference in 'Empuraan'

Mohanlal apologises over Gujarat riots reference in 'Empuraan'

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

On Thursday, the opening day of the movie itself, the Sangh Parivar came out with vehement criticism against the film on social media, while the Congress and a section of the Left platforms celebrated the film for portraying the right-wing politics as "villainous".

Fadnavis orders probe into pregnant woman's death in Pune

Fadnavis orders probe into pregnant woman's death in Pune

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

The Maharashtra government has ordered a probe into the death of a pregnant woman after a hospital in Pune allegedly denied her admission due to non-payment of Rs 10 lakh as advance deposit. The woman, Tanisha Bhise, died after giving birth to twin girls at another hospital. The incident sparked protests outside the Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, with opposition parties alleging negligence and demanding action against the hospital.

India ends transshipment pact with Bangladesh after Yunus remark

India ends transshipment pact with Bangladesh after Yunus remark

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

India has exempted Bangladeshi exports to Nepal and Bhutan as such trade facilitation is mandatory for landlocked countries under the framework of provisions of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Will Pakistan's Generals Never Learn?

Will Pakistan's Generals Never Learn?

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

Asim Munir and his brand of short-sighted army officers give no inkling of paying heed, changing course or learning lessons from the past, observes Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at RA&W.

AIMPLB urges Muslims to wear black armbands during juma to protest Waqf Bill

AIMPLB urges Muslims to wear black armbands during juma to protest Waqf Bill

Rediff.com28 Mar 2025

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has urged Muslims to wear a black armband on their right hand during Juma prayers on the last Friday of Ramzan as a mark of protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The AIMPLB has been vocal in its opposition to the Bill, calling it "controversial, discriminatory and damaging." The organization has planned nationwide protests against the Bill, with large sit-ins scheduled in several cities.

Transition of Kapil Mishra: From BJP, Modi critic to Delhi minister

Transition of Kapil Mishra: From BJP, Modi critic to Delhi minister

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

Kapil Mishra, a former AAP member and a vocal critic of the BJP, RSS, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has undergone a complete political transformation, becoming a controversial figure often regarded as the "posterboy of Hindutva." He has now been inducted as a minister in the newly formed Delhi government, marking a significant shift in his political allegiance and raising questions about his role in shaping the city's future.

Watch Chhaava On OTT!

Watch Chhaava On OTT!

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

The biggest hit of 2025 arrives on OTT this week, along with many other highs and horrors.

No 'Pakistan' On India Jersey

No 'Pakistan' On India Jersey

Rediff.com21 Jan 2025

The dispute revolves around BCCI's reported refusal to have 'Pakistan' -- the host nation -- printed on Team India's official jersey for the Champions Trophy.

UP STF guns down 2nd robbery accused; Akhilesh's wish, says his father

UP STF guns down 2nd robbery accused; Akhilesh's wish, says his father

Rediff.com23 Sep 2024

The Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday said it has gunned down a second accused in the Sultanpur jewellery store robbery case in a pre-dawn encounter in Unnao district. "Akhilesh Yadav's wish has been fulfilled, a Thakur has been encountered," said the father of Anuj Pratap Singh.

UP on high alert as Holi coincides with Friday namaaz; drones deployed

UP on high alert as Holi coincides with Friday namaaz; drones deployed

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Uttar Pradesh is on high alert as Holi coincides with Friday namaz, prompting authorities to implement additional security measures in the state, including enhanced patrolling, surveillance drones, and strict monitoring of social media. The decision follows controversial remarks made by some politicians and a police officer, raising concerns about potential incidents in mixed population localities. The administration has also decided to cover mosques to prevent them from being stained with colors, while several mosques have shifted the timing of Friday prayers.

The Best Political Biopic? VOTE!

The Best Political Biopic? VOTE!

Rediff.com29 Jan 2024

Deepa Gahlot lists Hindi biopics about Indian political leaders: Some worked, some did not, but they managed to avoid controversy.

Govt is not allowing people to celebrate Eid freely: Akhilesh

Govt is not allowing people to celebrate Eid freely: Akhilesh

Rediff.com31 Mar 2025

Yadav further accused the BJP of "using distractions" to avoid addressing real issues such as rising unemployment, inflation, lack of investment in Uttar Pradesh, and failing healthcare facilities.

Sena-UBT, Rane supporters clash as Aaditya visits Shivaji statue collapse site

Sena-UBT, Rane supporters clash as Aaditya visits Shivaji statue collapse site

Rediff.com28 Aug 2024

Sena-UBT leader and former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray visited the Rajkot fort on Wednesday to take stock of the situation post the statue collapse.

After row, AMU says students can play Holi 'freely'

After row, AMU says students can play Holi 'freely'

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

Amid demands for allowing Holi celebration on the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) campus, its administration has decided that students can do so "freely" at the Non-Resident Students Centre Hall. The decision came after a controversy erupted when members of a right-wing group accused the university administration of denying permission to Hindu students to organize a 'Holi Milan' function on campus. However, the university administration clarified that the decision to allow Holi celebrations at the NRSC Hall was taken because of an AMU board examination scheduled for March 9. The administration further stated that March 10, 11, and 12 are working days and there will be classes, while March 13 and 14 are holidays, making them suitable for celebrations.

'We Don't Want To Teach About Our Own Culture'

'We Don't Want To Teach About Our Own Culture'

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

'We will teach Shakespeare and Pythagoras but we won't teach Kalidas, Thiruvallur or Bodhayana.'

Will Atishi emerge as AAP's new face after Kejriwal's defeat?

Will Atishi emerge as AAP's new face after Kejriwal's defeat?

Rediff.com8 Feb 2025

Atishi, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has retained the Kalkaji Assembly seat in the Delhi elections. She defeated her BJP rival, former MP Ramesh Bidhuri, by a margin of 3,521 votes. Atishi's win comes as a relief for the AAP, which suffered major losses in the polls. She had previously served as the Chief Minister of Delhi for a short period last year. Atishi's victory is significant as she is one of the few AAP leaders to win in the elections. Her win is likely to solidify her position within the party.

NCP-SP leaders behind minister Gore's extortion case: Fadnavis

NCP-SP leaders behind minister Gore's extortion case: Fadnavis

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has alleged that leaders of the opposition Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) were involved in a "conspiracy" against his cabinet colleague Jaykumar Gore in a case involving a woman. Fadnavis said there was proof of communication between NCP leaders Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar, and one of the accused in the case where three persons, including the woman, have been arrested for trying to extort money from Gore. He also pointed to Gore's acquittal more than five years ago in a case involving the woman's allegations of harassment. Fadnavis emphasized that opposition and ruling parties are political opponents and not enemies. The CM also criticized the behavior of some opposition members in the state assembly, accusing them of insulting the House and pressuring ministers.

LG-Omar clash looms as CM calls urgent meet over JKAS transfers

LG-Omar clash looms as CM calls urgent meet over JKAS transfers

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

In a significant administrative reshuffle, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha ordered the transfer and posting of 48 J-K Administrative Service (JKAS) officers, potentially creating friction with the National Conference-led government in the Union Territory. The move, seen by many as an attempt by the LG to assert control over the bureaucracy, includes the transfer of 14 additional deputy commissioners and 26 sub-divisional magistrates. The timing of the order, coinciding with the elected government's wait for approval on business rules, raises concerns over power dynamics in the region.

Stalin to challenge Waqf Bill in SC, gets AIADMK support

Stalin to challenge Waqf Bill in SC, gets AIADMK support

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M K Stalin announced that his party will file a case in the Supreme Court against the Waqf Bill passed in the Lok Sabha. The opposition AIADMK expressed solidarity with the DMK's stance, while the BJP members staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest. The CM argued that the amendment was passed at the behest of a few allies despite opposition from majority parties and that it is an attack on the Constitution and religious harmony. The DMK claims the bill threatens the autonomy of the Waqf Board and the Muslim minority population.

Disha Salian issue rocks Maha House; Aaditya Thackeray says....

Disha Salian issue rocks Maha House; Aaditya Thackeray says....

Rediff.com20 Mar 2025

Targeting Aaditya Thackeray on Thursday, Bharatiya Janata Party minister Nitesh Rane said as per the Supreme Court's past decisions, if a person is facing allegations of rape, he must be arrested.

UP man says daughter killed for refusing to vote for SP

UP man says daughter killed for refusing to vote for SP

Rediff.com20 Nov 2024

A 23-year-old Dalit woman was found dead in Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, with her family alleging she was killed for refusing to vote for the Samajwadi Party in the Karhal assembly bypoll. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the woman's death. The incident has escalated into a political controversy, with the BJP accusing the SP of creating an atmosphere of terror and the SP alleging that the Election Commission is turning a blind eye to the BJP's alleged misuse of government machinery. The bypoll in Karhal is being contested by the SP's Tej Pratap Singh and his 'fufa' Anujesh Pratap Singh, with the BSP also fielding a candidate.