News for 'political leaders'

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Union Minister Suresh Gopi addressed the controversy surrounding the Kerala Chief Minister's absence at Prime Minister Modi's event, citing Blue Book protocol and SPG procedures.

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Union Minister Suresh Gopi addressed the controversy surrounding the Kerala Chief Minister's absence at Prime Minister Modi's event, citing Blue Book protocol and SPG procedures.

Opposition Parties Challenge Assam Police Findings in Zubeen Garg Death Case

Opposition Parties Challenge Assam Police Findings in Zubeen Garg Death Case

Rediff.com4 days ago

Opposition parties in Assam are questioning the police investigation into the death of singer Zubeen Garg after a Singapore coroner ruled it an accidental drowning, contradicting the Assam police's murder charge.

Mamata Banerjee, Suvendu Adhikari Remember Nandigram Victims

Mamata Banerjee, Suvendu Adhikari Remember Nandigram Victims

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari commemorate the anniversary of the Nandigram massacre, paying tribute to the 14 protesters killed during the 2007 anti-land acquisition movement.

Former Punjab Minister Bhullar Arrested in Suicide Case

Former Punjab Minister Bhullar Arrested in Suicide Case

Rediff.com6 days ago

Former Punjab minister Laljit Singh Bhullar has been arrested following the suicide of a state warehousing corporation official who accused the AAP MLA of harassment. The arrest follows public outcry and political pressure for accountability in the case.

TN poll: DMK to contest 164 seats; Cong 27; OPS, Balaji in fray

TN poll: DMK to contest 164 seats; Cong 27; OPS, Balaji in fray

Rediff.com1 days ago

The DMK has announced its candidates for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, setting the stage for key battles with the AIADMK and other parties.

BJP Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide, Alleges Government Cover-Up

BJP Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide, Alleges Government Cover-Up

Rediff.com4 days ago

A Punjab BJP delegation has requested a CBI investigation into the suicide of a Punjab State Warehousing Corporation official, alleging harassment and a cover-up by the state government.

BJP MP Narayan Rane hints at retirement from politics

BJP MP Narayan Rane hints at retirement from politics

Rediff.com4 Jan 2026

Senior BJP leader Narayan Rane hints at retirement, citing family business and political climate as reasons for stepping back from active politics.

Fuel Crisis: Will There Be a Lockdown? Govt Says...

Fuel Crisis: Will There Be a Lockdown? Govt Says...

Rediff.com3 days ago

Calling such reports baseless, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said there was no such move under consideration.

'Not a case of love-jihad, didn't convert: Viral Kumbh Mela girl

'Not a case of love-jihad, didn't convert: Viral Kumbh Mela girl

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Actress Monalisa Bhonsle, who gained fame at the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, has denied reports that she is underage following her marriage in Kerala. She asserts she is 18 and legally married.

'Khamenei's son unacceptable': Trump seeks role in Iran succession

'Khamenei's son unacceptable': Trump seeks role in Iran succession

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

He also criticised the possible succession of the son of the late supreme leader of the Islamic Republic, Mojtaba Khamenei, who is widely viewed as a leading contender for the position.

Infantino: World Cup 2026 on track despite Iran uncertainty

Infantino: World Cup 2026 on track despite Iran uncertainty

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino says the 2026 World Cup will proceed as scheduled despite uncertainty over Iran's participation due to security and geopolitical tensions.

'Walks in like a tapori': Kangana slams Rahul Gandhi

'Walks in like a tapori': Kangana slams Rahul Gandhi

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Her remarks come after 84 former bureaucrats, 116 veterans, and four lawyers wrote an open letter asking Rahul Gandhi to apologise over an incident in which he had tea and biscuits at the Makar Dwar entrance of Parliament.

Iran's supreme leader accepts thousands killed in unrest

Iran's supreme leader accepts thousands killed in unrest

Rediff.com18 Jan 2026

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly acknowledged for the first time that thousands of people were killed during recent nationwide protests, marking an unusual admission from the clerical leadership amid a fierce crackdown that has drawn international attention, reports Fox News.

Assam polls: Congress, Raijor Dal finalise alliance

Assam polls: Congress, Raijor Dal finalise alliance

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Congress and Raijor Dal have finalised a seat-sharing agreement for the Assam assembly elections, with Congress leaving 11 constituencies for Raijor Dal and a friendly contest in two others. The alliance aims to defeat the BJP government.

Odisha CM: Maoist Menace to Be History Soon, Focus on Women's Safety

Odisha CM: Maoist Menace to Be History Soon, Focus on Women's Safety

Rediff.com4 days ago

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced significant progress in combating Maoist insurgency, stating it will soon be a thing of the past. He also addressed concerns about crimes against women, highlighting the government's commitment to justice and a zero-tolerance policy.

Punjab minister resigns after state official's suicide

Punjab minister resigns after state official's suicide

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Punjab minister Laljit Singh Bhullar resigned after being accused of abetting the suicide of a state warehousing corporation official. The resignation follows allegations of harassment and pressure related to warehouse tenders.

Assam Elections: Who Are the Richest Candidates?

Assam Elections: Who Are the Richest Candidates?

Rediff.com1 days ago

Election affidavits in Assam have unveiled significant financial disparities among key candidates, with some declaring extensive assets, multiple bank accounts, and numerous vehicles, while others report more modest holdings.

Tribal Protest Over Arrests Disrupts Normal Life in Odisha's Rairangpur

Tribal Protest Over Arrests Disrupts Normal Life in Odisha's Rairangpur

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Normal life in Odisha's Rairangpur area was disrupted due to a bandh called by the Mayurbhanj Adivasi Ekata Manch, protesting the arrest of 34 tribals following a clash with police during a protest on March 13. The bandh was supported by several political parties and tribal organisations, affecting shops, transport, and educational institutions.

Opposition Challenges Assam Police Over Zubeen Garg Death Probe

Opposition Challenges Assam Police Over Zubeen Garg Death Probe

Rediff.com4 days ago

Opposition parties in Assam are questioning the state police's handling of the Zubeen Garg death case after a Singapore coroner ruled out foul play, contradicting the Assam police's murder charges against several accused. The conflicting findings have sparked controversy and calls for further investigation.

Kerala Opposition Questions CM's Silence on Minister's Allegations

Kerala Opposition Questions CM's Silence on Minister's Allegations

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The Leader of Opposition in Kerala is demanding answers from the Chief Minister regarding allegations against Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar made by his wife, questioning the government's commitment to women's safety.

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government is facing criticism after an acid attack on a Class 6 girl student in Sangamner. The Congress party has slammed the government in the legislative assembly, alleging a deterioration in law and order in the state. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of women and girls in Maharashtra.

Punjab CM Questions Centre's 'Denial' of Bharat Ratna to Martyrs

Punjab CM Questions Centre's 'Denial' of Bharat Ratna to Martyrs

Rediff.com6 days ago

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has reaffirmed his government's commitment to honouring martyrs and building a vibrant Punjab, while also criticising the central government for not awarding the Bharat Ratna to freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.

CPI(M) MLA Downplays G Sudhakaran's Independent Candidacy

CPI(M) MLA Downplays G Sudhakaran's Independent Candidacy

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

CPI(M) MLA H Salam dismisses the potential impact of senior leader G Sudhakaran contesting as an independent candidate in the upcoming Kerala Assembly election, following Sudhakaran's decision to leave the party.

Stalin Sitting Pretty In Tamil Nadu, But...

Stalin Sitting Pretty In Tamil Nadu, But...

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Tamil Nadu will elect a new government on April 23.
Will the DMK retain power? Can the AIADMK spring a surprise? And what about Vijay's TVK? A Ganesh Nadar surveys the election landscape a day after the Election Commission announced the poll schedule.

Will Trump Send Troops To Iran By The Weekend?

Will Trump Send Troops To Iran By The Weekend?

Rediff.com3 days ago

Taking Kharg would give the US control over virtually all of Iran's oil exports and thus provide significant leverage, notes Prem Panicker in his must read daily blog on the Gulf War. It would also put American troops within range of Iran's remaining missiles, drones, and artillery on a piece of real estate that is just eight square miles in size, and just 15 miles from the Iranian mainland.

Union Ministers Accuse West Bengal of Protocol Breach During President's Visit

Union Ministers Accuse West Bengal of Protocol Breach During President's Visit

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy and Telangana BJP president N Ramchander Rao have criticised the West Bengal government for alleged protocol violations during President Droupadi Murmu's visit, sparking a political row.

BJP Protests Arrests Following Clash Before Modi's Kolkata Rally

BJP Protests Arrests Following Clash Before Modi's Kolkata Rally

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

BJP workers protested in Baranagar, Kolkata, demanding the release of party members arrested in connection with a clash that occurred before Prime Minister Modi's rally. The protest disrupted traffic and led to allegations of false implication and political motivation.

Khamenei killing: 14 injured in J-K protests; curbs on convoy movement

Khamenei killing: 14 injured in J-K protests; curbs on convoy movement

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Protests erupted in Kashmir following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading to restrictions on movement and mobile internet speeds.

Mamata Banerjee to Hold Dharna Against Electoral Roll Deletions

Mamata Banerjee to Hold Dharna Against Electoral Roll Deletions

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to hold a dharna in Kolkata against alleged arbitrary deletions in the state's electoral rolls, marking a return to her roots as a street fighter and signalling a key political battle ahead of Assembly elections.

Pawan Khera faces 3-4 FIRs over militant contacts: Himanta Sarma

Pawan Khera faces 3-4 FIRs over militant contacts: Himanta Sarma

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused Congress leader Pawan Khera of attempting to contact militant groups to influence election results, stating that several FIRs have been registered against him and an investigation is underway.

LS likely to revoke suspension of 8 Opposition MPs on Tuesday

LS likely to revoke suspension of 8 Opposition MPs on Tuesday

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The suspension of eight opposition MPs from the Lok Sabha is likely to be revoked, following a decision made at a meeting convened by Speaker Om Birla. The MPs were suspended in February for unruly behaviour during the Budget session.

Punjab AAP leader Lucky Oberoi shot 8-10 times in his car, dies

Punjab AAP leader Lucky Oberoi shot 8-10 times in his car, dies

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

The incident took place in the morning, a senior police official from Jalandhar said over the phone.

Ustaad Bhagat Singh Review: Pawan Kalyan's Action Potboiler is Over-Familiar, Over-Exhausting

Ustaad Bhagat Singh Review: Pawan Kalyan's Action Potboiler is Over-Familiar, Over-Exhausting

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Ustaad Bhagat Singh is less a film and more, a lazily constructed vehicle for star worship and political signalling, one that quickly wears out its welcome for anyone outside Pawan Kalyan's core fanbase, observes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Family Demands CBI Probe into Accused's Death in Gurdaspur Policemen Murder Case

Family Demands CBI Probe into Accused's Death in Gurdaspur Policemen Murder Case

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

The family of Ranjit Singh, an accused in the murder of two policemen in Gurdaspur, who was killed in an encounter with police, staged a sit-in demanding a CBI probe into his death and a fresh autopsy.

Gulf War: Will Trump Strike A Deal With Iran?

Gulf War: Will Trump Strike A Deal With Iran?

Rediff.com2 days ago

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are actively pushing Trump to take the war to its bitter finish and 'erase' Iran's presence in the geopolitics of the region. Simply put, the two most powerful Sunni Arab oligarchies are on the same page as Israel. Such interference increases the risk of a breakdown in dialogue between the US and Iran, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

'May harm India-Israel ties': Oscar-nominated film delayed

'May harm India-Israel ties': Oscar-nominated film delayed

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The India release of the Oscar-nominated film 'The Voice of Hind Rajab', based on the story of a five-year-old Palestinian girl killed by Israeli forces, is facing delays as the distributor awaits a censor certificate.

UK tycoon apologises for 'colonised by immigrants' jibe after backlash

UK tycoon apologises for 'colonised by immigrants' jibe after backlash

Rediff.com12 Feb 2026

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe apologises after claiming the UK had been 'colonised by immigrants,' sparking criticism from political leaders.

How NDA Won All 5 Rajya Sabha Seats In Bihar

How NDA Won All 5 Rajya Sabha Seats In Bihar

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The Opposition had the numbers to win one Rajya Sabha seat from Bihar. As it turned out, four MLAs skipped the voting, helping the NDA to sweep the polls.

Why Did Israel Kill Ali Larijani?

Why Did Israel Kill Ali Larijani?

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Israel has for more than two decades and several US presidencies worked to draw the United States into a full-scale war with Iran. Having finally achieved that, the last thing it wants is Trump declaring victory and going home, as he is prone to do. Ali Larijani was the figure most capable of handing Trump a negotiated exit with something to show for it. Without Larijani, the road to an exit gets considerably narrower. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.