News for 'political controversy'

Arundhati Roy Withdraws From Berlinale

Arundhati Roy Withdraws From Berlinale

Rediff.com14 Feb 2026

Arundhati Roy has withdrawn from the Berlin International Film Festival, as she was 'shocked and disgusted' by the comments of the jury members regarding their stance on Gaza.

Galgotias varsity leaves AI Summit after robodog row

Galgotias varsity leaves AI Summit after robodog row

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

Galgotias University is under fire after showcasing a robotic dog that sparked controversy over its true origin and whether it was misrepresented as in-house technology.

HC notice to Assam CM Himanta over hate speech PILs

HC notice to Assam CM Himanta over hate speech PILs

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The Gauhati High Court has issued a notice to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in response to Public Interest Litigations (PILs) accusing him of hate speech, with the court also issuing notices to the Centre, state government, and DGP, and setting a hearing date for April 21.

Assam CM's 'shooting' video: SC agrees to hear plea

Assam CM's 'shooting' video: SC agrees to hear plea

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to consider a plea seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over a viral video allegedly showing him taking aim and firing with a rifle at members of the Muslim community.

Can India Reset Ties With Bangladesh?

Can India Reset Ties With Bangladesh?

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

Sensitive issues remain. Water sharing of the Ganga and Teesta rivers. Treatment of minorities, particularly Hindus. Border management. Trade imbalances. Connectivity projects.What happens next will shape not just bilateral ties, but the balance of South Asia itself, points out Ramesh Menon.

Opposition calls US trade pact a 'trap deal', steps up protest

Opposition calls US trade pact a 'trap deal', steps up protest

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

Opposition MPs, including members of the Congress party, staged a protest in the Parliament House complex over the India-US trade agreement, controversy surrounding former Army chief MM Naravane's unpublished memoir, and the suspension of eight MPs.

Explained: What athletes can and cannot say at the Olympics

Explained: What athletes can and cannot say at the Olympics

Rediff.com12 Feb 2026

The ejection of Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych from the Winter Games over his "helmet of remembrance" has put the spotlight on rules over where athletes are not allowed to express themselves on political matters at the Olympics.

Has Karur Tragedy Halted Vijay's Political Rise?

Has Karur Tragedy Halted Vijay's Political Rise?

Rediff.com28 Sep 2025

The Karur tragedy has exposed the huge gaps in Vijay's understanding of realpolitik, elections and political administration, asserts N Sathiya Moorthy.

Youth Cong AI protest ignites nationwide BJP-Congress street clashes

Youth Cong AI protest ignites nationwide BJP-Congress street clashes

Rediff.com22 Feb 2026

Indore in Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry and Prakasam in Andhra Pradesh also witnessed a tense atmosphere amid confrontation between the party workers.

Winter Olympics! IOC disqualifies Ukraine skeleton star over helmet

Winter Olympics! IOC disqualifies Ukraine skeleton star over helmet

Rediff.com12 Feb 2026

Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych was disqualified from the Milano Cortina Winter Games for wearing a helmet depicting Ukrainian athletes killed in the war with Russia. The IOC offered alternative ways to honor the athletes, but Heraskevych's team plans to appeal the decision.

Kerala Minister's Wife Drops Complaint Against Him After Apology

Kerala Minister's Wife Drops Complaint Against Him After Apology

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The wife of Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar has dropped her complaint against him after he apologised, providing relief to the ruling LDF ahead of upcoming elections. However, the Congress party is demanding the minister's resignation, arguing the issue is not easily settled.

Shivaji-Tipu remark: 9 injured as BJP, Cong workers clash

Shivaji-Tipu remark: 9 injured as BJP, Cong workers clash

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

BJP and Congress workers clashed in Pune following controversial remarks equating Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan, leading to injuries and police intervention.

Trump fires Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem

Trump fires Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Donald Trump has appointed Markwayne Mullin as the new Secretary of Homeland Security, replacing Kristi Noem, who will take on the role of Special Envoy for 'The Shield of the Americas' initiative.

'Ban me if you want': Ukrainian defies IOC over tribute at Winter Olympics

'Ban me if you want': Ukrainian defies IOC over tribute at Winter Olympics

Rediff.com11 Feb 2026

The International Olympic Committee pleaded on Wednesday with skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych to compete without his banned helmet depicting Ukrainian athletes killed since Russia's invasion and avoid potential disqualification.

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of Aiding Gangster Bishnoi

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of Aiding Gangster Bishnoi

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the central government of providing special treatment to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is accused in the Sidhu Moosewala murder case. Mann's criticism comes after Union Minister Amit Shah spoke about gang activities in Punjab.

Ajit 'dada' Pawar: Always the bridesmaid, never the bride

Ajit 'dada' Pawar: Always the bridesmaid, never the bride

Rediff.com28 Jan 2026

Ajit Pawar, who was the finance and planning minister, would have tabled his budget for 2026-27 next month when the state legislature's budget session begins in Mumbai on February 23.

'Those who abuse Modi...': BJP leader refuses blankets to Muslim woman

'Those who abuse Modi...': BJP leader refuses blankets to Muslim woman

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

A former BJP MP in Rajasthan is facing accusations of religious discrimination after allegedly insulting a Muslim woman and taking back a blanket during a distribution event.

NCERT pulls textbook from website after CJI's rebuke

NCERT pulls textbook from website after CJI's rebuke

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

The NCERT's class 8 textbook is under scrutiny for its content on judicial corruption, potentially leading to its removal after government concerns and objections from the judiciary.

'Indian Army Has Free Hand To Deal With China'

'Indian Army Has Free Hand To Deal With China'

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

'After the Galwan clash, the rules of engagement changed with the army commanders allowed to use any means at their disposal as they deem fit for tactical operations.'

SC rejects plea against Assam CM Sarma over 'shooting' video

SC rejects plea against Assam CM Sarma over 'shooting' video

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has declined to entertain petitions seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma regarding a viral video, advising petitioners to approach the Gauhati High Court instead.

Delhi cops probe 'conspiracy' behind Naravane memoir leak

Delhi cops probe 'conspiracy' behind Naravane memoir leak

Rediff.com11 Feb 2026

Delhi Police's Special Cell has issued a notice to Penguin Random House India regarding the alleged unauthorized circulation of former Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane's unpublished book, 'Four Stars of Destiny'. The investigation follows reports of the manuscript being illegally disseminated before publication, leading to an FIR.

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The ruling NDA alliance has secured a majority in the Rajya Sabha elections, winning key seats in Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana, while other candidates were elected unopposed across multiple states. The elections were marked by cross-voting allegations and political maneuvering.

'No Prime Minister Orders Military Attacks'

'No Prime Minister Orders Military Attacks'

Rediff.com3 Feb 2026

'Critics say the political leadership abandoned the army chief or did not back him. I disagree. 'Military leaders are trained to take decisions when given a free hand.' 'This was a clear go-ahead from the prime minister to the army chief.'

Pradhan Accuses TMC of Protecting 'Infiltrators' for Votes

Pradhan Accuses TMC of Protecting 'Infiltrators' for Votes

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan accuses the TMC of objecting to the omission of names from electoral rolls due to fears of losing the 'infiltrator' vote bank in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly polls.

Assam CM Sarma files Rs 500 cr defamation case against Congress leaders

Assam CM Sarma files Rs 500 cr defamation case against Congress leaders

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has filed a Rs 500 crore defamation case against Congress leaders for alleging land grabbing by him and his family. The lawsuit follows a press conference where Congress leaders claimed Sarma possessed benami land.

Will Vijay's Next Film Rescue His Political Career?

Will Vijay's Next Film Rescue His Political Career?

Rediff.com6 Oct 2025

'Karur could still impact Jana Nayagan's box-office success if Vijay and the TVK do not get their act together,' points out N Sathiya Moorthy.

MP CM, Speaker express regret over Vijayvargiya's remark

MP CM, Speaker express regret over Vijayvargiya's remark

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya used an unparliamentary word for the Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar, prompting apologies and protests.

Muslim names in LD lists exceed population share in 4 Kolkata seats: Study

Muslim names in LD lists exceed population share in 4 Kolkata seats: Study

Rediff.com12 Feb 2026

A new study alleges that Muslim voters are disproportionately represented in Logical Discrepancy (LD) lists during Kolkata's voter roll revision, raising concerns about potential bias in the electoral process.

Maha Kumbh ends with 65 cr attendees, controversies, politics

Maha Kumbh ends with 65 cr attendees, controversies, politics

Rediff.com26 Feb 2025

The Maha Kumbh, billed as the world's largest gathering, concluded on Wednesday after 45 days, with lakhs of devotees taking a dip in the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Despite a stampede that killed at least 30 people, millions continued to visit the Kumbh, seeking salvation through the ritual bath. The event saw a mix of faith, tradition, and technology, drawing pilgrims and tourists from across the globe.

Punjab Ministers Visit Family of Slain Policeman in Gurdaspur

Punjab Ministers Visit Family of Slain Policeman in Gurdaspur

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Punjab ministers Lal Chand Kataruchak and Laljit Singh Bhullar met the family of ASI Gurnam Singh, who was killed in Gurdaspur, to offer condolences and assure support. The ministers condemned the act and vowed strict punishment for the perpetrators, while also addressing concerns about the death of one of the accused and criticizing opposition parties.

Filmmaker Discusses 'The Voice of Hind Rajab'

Filmmaker Discusses 'The Voice of Hind Rajab'

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania discusses her docudrama 'The Voice of Hind Rajab,' which focuses on the tragic story of a six-year-old Palestinian girl killed during the Israel-Gaza conflict, and her motivations for making the film.

Afridi's Anti-India Dig Sparks Backlash

Afridi's Anti-India Dig Sparks Backlash

Rediff.com8 Jan 2026

Months after the Asia Cup final ended in an unprecedented trophy snub, the controversy has resurfaced -- this time through a pointed comment from former Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi that has sparked sharp reactions across social media.

Boys never...: Swami Avimukteshwaranand on POCSO charges

Boys never...: Swami Avimukteshwaranand on POCSO charges

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati addresses sexual abuse allegations, asserting his innocence and claiming the charges are fabricated. An FIR was lodged against him and his disciple following a court order.

AIMIM corporator's 'paint Mumbra green' remark sparks row

AIMIM corporator's 'paint Mumbra green' remark sparks row

Rediff.com21 Jan 2026

A newly-elected AIMIM corporator's victory speech, vowing to 'paint Mumbra green,' has sparked controversy, with rivals questioning its religious overtones. The corporator has since clarified her remarks.

Ex-Prince Andrew exits Royal Lodge amid Epstein scandal pressure

Ex-Prince Andrew exits Royal Lodge amid Epstein scandal pressure

Rediff.com4 Feb 2026

Prince Andrew vacates his Royal Lodge residence as scrutiny over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein intensifies. UK police investigate new information, while a former UK ambassador faces investigation over his relationship with the convicted sex offender.

National churches body moves SC against anti-conversion law in 12 states

National churches body moves SC against anti-conversion law in 12 states

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Centre and 12 states on a PIL challenging the validity of their anti-conversion laws. The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) filed the PIL, seeking a stay on the operation of these laws.

Maha BJP chief's remark backfires, Cong sweeps Latur civic polls

Maha BJP chief's remark backfires, Cong sweeps Latur civic polls

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

The Congress won elections to the Latur Municipal Corporation (LMC) in central Maharashtra on Friday, bagging a clear majority with 43 seats in the 70-member body, leaving the Bharatiya Janata Party a distant second with 22 seats.

Hormuz Crisis Threatens Global Economy

Hormuz Crisis Threatens Global Economy

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

When missiles fly in this region, they are never just aimed at military targets.

PCB Flags India U-19 Team's 'Provocative Behaviour'

PCB Flags India U-19 Team's 'Provocative Behaviour'

Rediff.com23 Dec 2025

'Indian players kept provoking Pakistani players during the Under-19 Asia Cup final.'

India Vs Pakistan: Punjab Kings Stirs Controversy

India Vs Pakistan: Punjab Kings Stirs Controversy

Rediff.com12 Sep 2025

Days before the high-profile match on September 14, the team posted a graphic on social media announcing India's next fixture -- deliberately omitting Pakistan's name.